DNA barcodes were obtained for 651 earthworms from the Nouragues reserve (French Guiana).
48 molecular species (MOTUs) were detected at the study site.
We found more MOTUs in soil and decaying trunks than in epiphytic soils and sediments.
We found an important turnover in MOTU composition between distant localities and among habitats.
Community structure results from both historical and actual processes.