Piscicolids [Piscicolidae]

Description

Piscicolidae is a family of leeches known for their elongated bodies and preference for aquatic environments, including both freshwater and marine habitats. These leeches are ectoparasites, primarily targeting fish as hosts. They attach to the skin or gills of fish and feed on their blood. Piscicolidae is characterized by their ability to swim using undulating body movements, which distinguishes them from other leech families. They have a cosmopolitan distribution, with marine species found in a variety of habitats from shallow coastal waters to deep-sea environments. Their life cycle can involve direct development or the release of free-swimming larvae, depending on the species.

Genera

Taxonomy