Glossiphonia

/ɡlɒsɪˈfoʊniə/ noun

Definition

A genus of freshwater leeches found worldwide, named for their elongated shape resembling a tongue.

Etymology

From Greek 'glossia' (tongue) + 'phonia' (voice/sound), though the sound reference may be a misnomer. Named in the 19th century by naturalists who fancied the resemblance to tongues.

Kelly Says

Glossiphonia leeches are tiny (under an inch) and parasitize freshwater snails—they're fascinating to aquarium enthusiasts because they're completely harmless to humans, unlike their larger cousins, yet few people even know they exist!

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