Invertebrates are animals that do not have a backbone or spinal column. They make up the vast majority of animal species on Earth, and include a wide range of organisms such as insects, spiders, crustaceans, mollusks, worms, and jellyfish, among others.
Invertebrates are found in almost every environment on Earth, from the deepest oceans to the highest mountaintops, and they play important roles in many different ecosystems. They can be important predators, prey, decomposers, pollinators, and more. Some invertebrates, such as insects, have significant economic and agricultural importance, while others, such as corals, play critical roles in building and maintaining ecosystems.
