Effects of seafloor disturbance on sediment biogeochemistry have been studied in the DISCOL Experimental Area (DEA) during leg SO242-1 and 242-2 of RV SONNE (Aug./Sep.2015). A variety of approaches have been employed including investigations in retrieved sediment cores (solid phase and pore water geochemistry, shipboard oxygen microprofiles) as well as lander- and ROV-based in situ flux studies with micro sensors and benthic chambers. Several levels of disturbance and spatiotemporal scales were addressed: Types of Disturbances included disruption of sediments as well as removal of sediments and nodules. Comparisons were carried out between distant sites of contrasting disturbance level (plough track vs. reference area off DEA) as well as between microhabitats identified within disturbed areas (e.g., elevations, depressions, excavated subsurface layers). Post-disturbance time scales that were addressed ranged from minutes (experimental nodule removal by ROV) and weeks (Epibenthos sledge deployments during the first leg) to years (plough harrow tows during the original disturbance experiment in 1989). This contribution introduces the habitats studied and the methods employed to investigate disturbance effects. Furthermore, first results on biogeochemical zonations and interfacial fluxes are presented and discussed with regard to predictions based on geochemical models.