Impact of flood deposits on earthworm communities in alder forests from a subalpine floodplain (Kandersteg, Switzerland)

► Earthworm communities as indicators of fluvial dynamics in a subalpine floodplain. ► Carbonate-rich alluvial environment along the Kander River (Switzerland). ► Epigeics considered as bioindicators of the latest flood event (inherited materials). ► Absence of anecic earthworms reflects the fluvial dynamics at subalpine level. ► Identification of Lumbricus meliboeus found for the first time in a carbonated soil.