Chtonobdella limbata

Chtonobdella limbata is a species of terrestrial blood-sucking leech, commonly found in subtropical forests of Australia. Contracted, the leeches are about 28 millimetres (1.1 in) long, but once extended they can reach 60 millimetres (2.4 in) or even 80 mm (3.1 in) in length. They have two saw-like jaws which they use to cut open their victims' skin. In colour, they are mostly dark, with some coloured stripes. Their rear suckers are oval-shaped and have a prehensile protuberance on their tips. The first stage of their feeding has been studied in detail, and shows some differences with other leeches.

C. limbata is found along the east coast of Australia, especially in the state of New South Wales. It has adapted to withstand drought-like conditions by anhydrobiosis; they burrow into the ground and enter an inanimate state that resists dehydration. In this state they can survive for several months. They are exclusively ground-dwellers, and never enter water or climb onto forest vegetation.