This leech has a body length 30 to 35 mm at rest.

A pink box around an image indicates that we think this is likely to be that species but cannot be certain.

Found under stones etc. in streams and ponds, especially when they are polluted to some extent by organic substances as the larvae that they prey on tend to be more common in such areas.

All year round.

Feeds on Chironomid larvae or any wounded larvae, damaged worms, crushed snails etc. sucking out the soft parts.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.