Chtonobdella limbata
| Australian Leech | |
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| an unidentified leech in Sydney | |
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| Species: | C. limbata
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| Binomial name | |
| Chtonobdella limbata Grube 1866
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Chtonobdella limbata is a species of blood sucking leech, found in New South Wales, Australia.[1][2][3] It occurs in moist forest areas, being noticeable after rain. Often encountered on the forest floor or on low foliage. A hungry leech is responsive to light or movement.
Scientific Study
![[icon]](/wiki/File:Wiki_letter_w_cropped.svg){kind=small} | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. (May 2012) |
There are many types of leech found in eastern Australia. This group of organisms is not well studied by scientists, and the current taxonomic state is not well determined. This species was described in 1866 by the German naturalist Adolph Eduard Grube. The name Gnatbobdellida libbata sometimes appears as the name for the “Australian Bush leech”.
Bite
Generally the bite is harmless. There will be bleeding, and possible irritation and itching after the bite. There is no evidence that the leech can transmit disease. However, some people have an allergic reaction or infection.[4] Medical advice should be sought if the bite doesn't clear up within a short period of time.
Bites may be prevented by protective clothing such as gaiters, stockings and several pairs of socks. Repellents, creams and other chemical treatments have been used with varying degrees of success.
References
- ^ "Alphabetical List of Australian and New Zealand Leech Species". Leeches Species List. Invertebrate US.
- ^ "Chtonobdella limbata". Australia's species. Atlas of Living Australia. Retrieved May 9, 2012.
- ^ the Australian Museum advised that the local leech species at Sydney is Chtonobdella limbata May 9, 2012
- ^ "Leeches". Animal Species. Australian Museum. Retrieved May 9, 2012.