Helobdella [Helobdella]

Description

Helobdella includes a variety of leech species that are known for their wide distribution across freshwater ecosystems around the world. These leeches have a distinctive appearance with a relatively stout body and often exhibit a mottled pattern of pigmentation. They are primarily detritivores, feeding on decomposing plant and animal matter, but some species may also display parasitic behaviors. Helobdella species play significant ecological roles in aquatic food webs by contributing to the decomposition process and nutrient cycling.

Species

Common Leech [Helobdella stagnalis]

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European Medicinal Leech [Helobdella medicinalis]

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North American Leech [Helobdella triserialis]

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Chilean Leech [Helobdella modesta]

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Taxonomy