Pacific Fish Leech [Zeylanicobdella arugamensis]
Description
The Pacific Fish Leech is endemic to the Pacific Ocean. This parasitic species attaches itself to the gills or skin of fish using its strong suckers. It can grow up to 3 cm long and its color ranges from dark brown to black. This leech is known for its elongated body and the absence of a posterior sucker, which differentiates it from other leech species.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Segmented Worms
Annelida
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Leeches
Hirudinea
|
| Order |
Rhynchobdellida
Rhynchobdellida
|
| Family |
Piscicolids
Piscicolidae
|
| Genus |
Fish Leech
Cystobranchus
|