American Freshwater Leech [Batracobdella picta]
Description
The American Freshwater Leech or Batracobdella picta, is a species of leech endemic to North America. This species inhabits freshwater bodies like lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. It is a nocturnal creature, often seen attached to the undersides of rocks or vegetation during the day. B. picta is characterized by its flattened body that can vary in color from dark green to black. It has a series of well-defined and brightly colored spots and stripes along its body. Like other leeches, it is a hermaphrodite with each individual possessing both male and female reproductive organs.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Segmented Worms
Annelida
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Leeches
Hirudinea
|
| Order |
Arhynchobdellida
Arhynchobdellida
|
| Family |
Glossiphoniidae
Glossiphoniidae
|
| Genus |
Batracobdella
Batracobdella
|