Question

Leech is?

• A. Carnivorous
• B. Sanguivorous
• C. Ectoparasite
• D. Both (b) and (c)

Answer 1

The correct option is D Both (b) and (c)

Sanguivorous leeches can ingest several times their own weight in blood at one meal. After feeding the leech retires to a dark spot to digest its meal. Digestion is slow and this enables the leech to survive during very long fasting periods (up to several months).

Land Leeches are blood sucking ectoparasites that feed on mammals. They are common in tropical and sub-tropical rainforests. Leeches are not known to spread any diseases but their bites cause haemorrhaging that is difficult to stop. As wounds stop bleeding, localised inflammation and itching is common at the bite site.

So, the correct option is d.