Size and structure of the Mediterranean medicinal leech, Hirudo verbana populations inhabiting wetlands around Lake Eğirdir, Turkey

In the present study size and structure of Mediterranean medicinal leech (Hirudo verbana Carena, 1820) populations inhabiting wetlands around Lake Eğirdir (Turkey) were investigated. Population was estimated by removal methods, age classes for first time in leeches (Hirudinea) using “Modal Progression Analysis” body length frequencies Bhattacharya's method. The population biomass to be 1,562,696 ± 805,613 467.26 172.91 kg, respectively. Three identified; group 0+ dominant with 78.6%. While 89.9% individuals weighed less than 1 g, whereas broodstock represent only 7%. Body weight, condition factor found 0.52 1.19 4.5 2.4 cm 0.620 0.123, This reveals that H. is relatively well preserved there no significant threat sustainability exploitation populations. It concluded stability lake's water budget, variety abundance host undamaged wetlands, socioeconomic collectors, sales policies, effective activities conservation control units might affect status Eğirdir.