Most of the leeches found in our lakes are parasites feeding on the body fluids of fish. They have a sucker at either end and can loop along. Some species of leech can feed on humans, they produce a local anaesthetic so you don't feel them bite.

Food chain
Position in the food chain:
Secondary consumer (parasite/carnivore)
They eat
Blood and body fluids
They are eaten by
fish, insect larvae

Find out more about Leeches

Canterbury Environmental Education Centre

Life cycle diagram