Researchers Capture Ground-Breaking Video Evidence of Leeches Jumping in Madagascar

Leeches are known for their bloodsucking abilities, but did you know they can also jump? New research has revealed that leeches can indeed jump, debunking previous doubts about their jumping capabilities.

Scientists from the American Museum of Natural History, Fordham University, and City University of New York (CUNY)’s Medgar Evers College captured groundbreaking footage of leeches jumping from a leaf in Madagascar. This video evidence, published in the journal Biotropica, is the first conclusive proof of leeches’ jumping abilities.

Lead author Dr. Mai Fahmy of Fordham University stated, “We believe this is the first convincing evidence that leeches can jump and do so with visible energy expenditure. This study dispels previous arguments that leeches simply attach to passers-by or drop from branches.”

The researchers observed leeches from the genus Chtonobdella coiling back on a leaf and then taking off, resembling a “back-bending cobra” or a spring being pulled back. Dr. Michael Tessler, co-author and Assistant Professor at CUNY’s Medgar Evans College, described the leeches’ jump as graceful but with a hard landing.

While this behavior may be common for the Chtonobdella fallax species found in Madagascar, the researchers emphasized the importance of understanding leech behavior for conservation efforts. Leeches play a role in surveying vertebrate biodiversity, and studying their feeding habits can provide valuable insights for conservation.

Dr. Fahmy added, “Leeches are often overlooked and understudied, and as a natural part of the ecosystem, they may also be in need of conservation protection.” This research sheds light on the fascinating abilities of leeches and highlights the importance of studying these often misunderstood creatures.