Theromyzon is a genus of leeches belonging to the family Glossiphoniidae. There are about 14 described species in Theromyzon.[1][2]

Theromyzon
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Annelida
Clade: Pleistoannelida
Clade: Sedentaria
Class: Clitellata
Subclass: Hirudinea
Order: Rhynchobdellida
Family: Glossiphoniidae
Genus: Theromyzon
Philippi, 1867

Leeches of this genus parasitize birds and are sometimes called duck leeches, although their hosts are not limited to ducks. The Theromyzon species tend to feed in the nasal cavities of waterbirds in general, from ducks to penguins.

As parasites of birds, and in many cases migratory waterfowl, these leeches typically have a broad distribution range. Leeches of the Theromyzon genus have been observed in the Americas, Eurasia, and Africa.[2]

Species

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These 14 species belong to the genus Theromyzon:[2][1]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Theromyzon". GBIF. Retrieved 2021-11-03.
  2. ^ a b c Davies, Ronald W.; Govedich, Fredric R.; Moser, William E. (2008). Atkinson, Carter T.; Thomas, Nancy J.; Hunter, D. Bruce (eds.). Parasitic Diseases of Wild Birds, 28 Leech Parasites of Birds. John Wiley & Son. doi:10.1002/9780813804620.ch28. ISBN 978-0-813-82081-1.