SSC CPO 2024 PYQ — Question 62

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. Annelida.

Blood-sucking leeches belong to the phylum Annelida, which includes segmented worms. Within Annelida, they are part of the class Clitellata and subclass Hirudinea. Leeches are characterized by their segmented bodies, coelom (body cavity), and presence of suckers at one or both ends, used for attachment and feeding. Most blood-sucking leeches, like Hirudo medicinalis (medicinal leech), are ectoparasites. They secrete anticoagulants to prevent blood clotting during feeding. Annelids exhibit bilateral symmetry, a complete digestive system, and a closed circulatory system, which supports their parasitic and free-living lifestyles.