Leeches: Role in Biodiversity,
Ecological Functions, Medical‑Zoological
Significance & Geographical Distribution

The conference is designed to generate scientifically robust, evidence-based, and integrative knowledge on the ecological and biological significance of medicinal leeches belonging to the genus Hirudo, particularly in the context of biodiversity conservation and ecosystem functioning. Special emphasis is placed on their geographical distribution patterns, spatial ecology, habitat specificity, and complex environmental interactions across diverse freshwater and semi-terrestrial ecosystems. This scientific platform aims to bridge gaps between applied and theoretical research by exploring the multifaceted roles of Hirudo species as bioindicators of environmental health, contributors to trophic dynamics, and organisms of biomedical importance while highlighting their relevance in both natural and human-influenced ecosystems. It promotes an interdisciplinary approach by integrating zoology, medical biology, ecology, biogeography, environmental sciences, and geoinformatics, and encourages the application of advanced methods such as molecular analyses, spatial modeling, and remote sensing. In a broader context, the conference seeks to foster international collaboration and support the development of sustainable conservation strategies for biodiversity preservation.