Studies on the Biological Control of Schistosome-Bearing Snails

Abstract

Summary The growth of an Australorbis glabratus population was effectively controlled by the leech, Helobdella fusca, under laboratory conditions. Small snails were found to be exceptionally vulnerable although snails of all sizes were killed by this leech. Furthermore, while the mature leeches were primarily responsible for killing the snails, it was found that young leeches may also play a contributory role. The manner in which the leech kills its prey is described and the possible practical aspects of the study are discussed.