Northern Sea Leech [Johanssonia arctica]
Description
The Northern Sea Leech, or Johanssonia arctica, is a marine leech endemic to the Arctic Ocean. It is a parasitic species, feeding on the blood of fish, sea mammals and even humans. The Northern Sea Leech typically inhabits colder waters and is known to be quite resilient, capable of surviving in various environments within its temperature range. It is characterized by its dark color and segmented body, with suckers at both ends for feeding and locomotion.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Segmented Worms
Annelida
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Leeches
Hirudinea
|
| Order |
Arhynchobdellida
Arhynchobdellida
|
| Family |
Piscicolidae
Piscicolidae
|
| Genus |
Arctic Leech
Austrobdella
|