American Society of Hirudotherapy

Clitellate (Annelida: Clitellata) parasites and predators of North American herpetofauna

Research article published in J Parasitol (2024)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Preclinical (animal)Clinical TrialsDe Luna M et al. · J Parasitol, 2024

Abstract

An updated checklist of leeches and oligochaetes (Annelida: Clitellata) that parasitize or prey upon wild North American amphibians and reptiles is presented: A total of 25 species grouped in 6 genera, 5 families, and 2 orders, are registered; these infect a total of 39 species of reptiles and 39 species of amphibians in the region. An illustrated identification key for the families and genera listed is proposed. Finally, a new record is made for Mexico: the leech Placobdella parasitica (Say, 1824) (Glossiphoniidae) parasitizing the Mesoamerican slider Trachemys venusta (Gray, 1856) (Emydidae) in the state of Tamaulipas.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeJournal ArticleResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsMexicoAmphibiansLeechesChecklistReptilesOligochaeta

Summary

Updated checklist of 25 leech and oligochaete species parasitizing North American amphibians and reptiles; new record of Placobdella parasitica from Mesoamerican slider in Tamaulipas, Mexico.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This study presents an updated checklist of leeches and oligochaetes (Clitellata) that parasitize or prey upon wild North American amphibians and reptiles, registering 25 species across 6 genera, 5 families, and 2 orders that collectively infect 39 reptile and 39 amphibian species. The authors provide an illustrated identification key and report a new Mexican record of Placobdella parasitica parasitizing the Mesoamerican slider turtle. While this contributes to general leech biodiversity knowledge, its relevance to hirudotherapy or the leech secretome is minimal, as these species are ecological parasites of herpetofauna rather than the medicinal leeches used therapeutically. Caveat: This is a taxonomic and ecological checklist with no examination of bioactive salivary compounds, anticoagulants, or therapeutic applications.

Citation

Clitellate (Annelida: Clitellata) parasites and predators of North American herpetofauna.

De Luna M et al. · J Parasitol, 2024

DOI

Added to ASH library: May 27, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.