Invertebrates
What Are Invertebrates? Meaning and Examples
Invertebrates are animals without a backbone, and they make up over 95% of all animal species. This group includes insects, spiders, molluscs, crustaceans, worms, and more. Invertebrates come in countless shapes and sizes and play essential roles in ecosystems.
Types of Invertebrates: Insects, Molluscs, Bees, and More
In India, invertebrates are incredibly diverse, ranging from the iconic Indian tiger centipede to around 1500 butterfly species like the southern birdwing — the largest butterfly in India. Coral reefs in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to a variety of marine invertebrates, including sea anemones, starfish, and sponges. Insects like bees and butterflies are crucial pollinators, while earthworms improve soil quality.
Why Invertebrate Populations Are Declining
However, invertebrates often go unnoticed in conservation despite their importance. Pesticide use, deforestation, pollution, and climate change are wiping out invertebrate populations at alarming rates. For instance, declining bee numbers could have serious implications for agriculture and food security. Light pollution in cities affects nocturnal insects like moths, while overharvesting and habitat destruction threaten freshwater invertebrates like mussels.
Roles Invertebrates Play in Ecosystems
Invertebrates form the foundation of many food webs and ecosystems; their disappearance would have cascading effects. Protecting them means safeguarding the tiny engineers of our natural world — many of whom remain scientifically undescribed or poorly understood.











































































































































































































