Reproductive Biology of the Erpobdellid Leech Nephelopsis obscura Verrill, 1872 in Culture

Abstract

Seventy-nine prespawning adult Nephelopsis obscura were isolated in laboratory culture for observation of reproductive behavior and assessment of cocoon production, length of spawning period and details of hatching and emergence. Results show that laboratory-held leeches mate, deposit cocoons and exhibit life cycle characteristics in concert with local wild populations. Comparisons are made with previous field studies of N. obscura and noticeable differences reported for pre-spawning weights and fecundity. Details of spermatophore implantation, cocoon deposition and fecundity are previously unpublished for this species in culture.