Predatory instance of a horse leech (Haemopis sp.) on a larva of fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra)

Abstract

Amphibians face severe global decline, making a comprehensive understanding of their ecological interactions essential for effective conservation planning. Among these interactions, leeches (Hirudinea) play an intricated role, acting both as ectoparasites and macrophagous predators. While the parasitic interactions between these taxa have been largely explored, the role of leeches as active predators of amphibians remains less documented, especially for caudate taxa. Here, we report a predation event of a horse leech (Haemopis sp.) on a larva of fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) taking place in northern Italy. To our knowledge, this is the first scientific record involving a member of the genus Salamandra, and potentially it may represent the first documented case of leech predation on a caudata larva. This observation thus highlights a potentially overlooked trophic interaction that may contribute to larval mortality and population dynamics.