Distinguishing Characteristics |
Body cylindrical, worm-like; with brownish transverse globular bands; suckers on both ends; caudal (tail end) sucker large, distinct from body, about equal to the maximum width of the body; anterior end narrower than tail end, oral sucker (anterior end) small but distinct from body by a constriction, has 2 pair of eyespots; body smooth, no branching extensions (papillae) or bumps (tubercles). |
Similar Species |
Can be distinguished from other marine leeches found in the Gulf of Mexico area by having no branching extensions, no warty appearance, a large caudal sucker, more than 1 pair of eyespots on oral sucker, and a distinct pattern of pigmentation. |
Habitat |
Gulf and bays, parasitic |
Maximum Size |
2.9 cm (1 in) |
Other Common Names |
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Previous Scientific Names |
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Comments |
This is a common parasite of fishes, such as flounder and croaker, and the blue crab. Occurs mainly in winter and spring months. |