Chtonobdella limbata

Australian Leech
an unidentified leech in Sydney
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Annelida
Class: Clitellata
Order: Hirudinea
Family: Haemadipsidae
Genus: Chtonobdella
Species: C. limbata
Binomial name
Chtonobdella limbata
Grube 1866

Chtonobdella limbata is a species of blood sucking leech, found in New South Wales, Australia.[1][2][3] It occurs in moist forest areas, being noticeable after rain. Often encountered on the forest floor or on low foliage. A hungry leech is responsive to light or movement.

Scientific Study

There are many types of leech found in eastern Australia. This group of organisms is not well studied by scientists, and the current taxonomic state is not well determined. This species was described in 1866 by the German naturalist Adolph Eduard Grube. The name Gnatbobdellida libbata sometimes appears as the name for the “Australian Bush leech”.

Bite

Generally the bite is harmless. There will be bleeding, and possible irritation and itching after the bite. There is no evidence that the leech can transmit disease. However, some people have an allergic reaction or infection.[4] Medical advice should be sought if the bite doesn't clear up within a short period of time.

Bites may be prevented by protective clothing such as gaiters, stockings and several pairs of socks. Repellents, creams and other chemical treatments have been used with varying degrees of success.

References

  1. ↑ "Alphabetical List of Australian and New Zealand Leech Species". Leeches Species List. Invertebrate US.
  2. ↑ "Chtonobdella limbata". Australia's species. Atlas of Living Australia. Retrieved May 9, 2012.
  3. ↑ the Australian Museum advised that the local leech species at Sydney is Chtonobdella limbata May 9, 2012
  4. ↑ "Leeches". Animal Species. Australian Museum. Retrieved May 9, 2012.
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