Invertebrate explained to kids

Invertebrates are animals that do not have a backbone or spinal column. This includes animals such as insects, crabs, and worms. There are about 1 million known species of invertebrates, and scientists believe there may be even more that have not been discovered yet! Invertebrates can be found all over the world, in every habitat imaginable. They come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiniest mites to the gigantic squid. Many invertebrates are able to change their shape, which helps them to escape predators or to find food. Invertebrates are an important part of the food chain. They are eaten by fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Some invertebrates, such as bees and ants, help to pollinate plants. Other invertebrates, such as shellfish, are a major food source for humans. Invertebrates have been on Earth for a very long time. The first invertebrates appeared more than 500 million years ago!