Observations on the Ecology and Morphology of Placobdella papillifera (Verrill) (Hirudinoidea: Glossiphoniidae) in Alberta, Canada

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Abstract
P. papillifera in the laboratory fed readily on fresh heparinized blood of a range of vertebrates, but never attacked vertebrate potential hosts. Growth rate data indicate that at least 4 blood meals are required to reach mature size and that young need at least 1 and possibly 2 blood meals in the autumn to survive the winter. Field data show a minimum mature weight of 500 mg with eggs brooded in June and July and young brooded in July-Sept. The embryological development and the main morphological characteristics are described. A 2nd smaller pair of eyes are recorded for the 1st time and the papillae are differentiated into 2 distinct types.