Leeches are

Options

A. Phytophagous animals
B. Blood sucking animals
C. Insectivorous animals
D. Soil eating animals

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Classification of Leeches**: Leeches belong to the class Hirudinea within the phylum Annelida. This classification is important as it helps us understand their biological characteristics.

2. **Understand the Feeding Habits**: Leeches are known for their feeding habits. They are specifically referred to as sanguivorous animals, which means they feed on blood.

3. **Define Ectoparasites**: Leeches act as ectoparasites, meaning they live on the surface of their host organisms and feed on their blood. This parasitic behavior is a key characteristic of leeches.

4. **Evaluate the Answer Choices**:
- **Phytophagous Animals**: These are organisms that feed on plant material. Earthworms are an example of phytophagous animals.
- **Blood Sucking Animals**: This is the correct classification for leeches, as they feed on the blood of their hosts.
- **Insectivorous Animals**: These animals depend on insects for food, such as frogs and toads.
- **Soil Eating Animals**: Known as geophagus, these animals consume soil. Earthworms can also fall into this category.

5. **Conclude the Correct Answer**: Based on the definitions and classifications discussed, the correct answer to the question "Leeches are" is that they are blood sucking animals.

**Final Answer**: Leeches are blood sucking animals.

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