Blood Sucking Asian Leeches of Families Hirudidae and Haemadipsidae

Abstract

Abstract : The report is a general, but far from complete account of the Asian blood-sucking aquatic leeches of family Hirudidae and the land leeches of family Haemadipsidae. While other blood-sucking leeches occur in Asia, the majority of the species known as pests of man and domestic animals are land leeches of genus Haemadipsa, and aquatic leeches of genera Hirudinaria, Hirudo, and Dinobdella. In western Asia the nasal leeches of genus Limnatis are also of human and veterinary medical importance. The report contains information on the identification, distribution, and habits of each of the species discussed. Finally, information is given on personal protective measures against leeches, and on the effectiveness of insecticides, molluscicides, and natural enemies in leech control. (Author)