Recycled water sources influence the bioavailability of copper to earthworms

► Copper bioavailability to earthworms in recycled water irrigated soils was studied. ► Worm avoidance at high Cu was more pronounced in the absence of recycled water. ► Copper accumulation in earthworms was significantly less in recycled water-soils. ► Bioconcentration factor of Cu in worms was higher in the absence of recycled water. ► Organic carbon in recycled waters decreased Cu toxicity to earthworms.