What is an invertebrate?

 

Animals can be divided into two large groups, vertebrates and invertebrates. The main difference between the two groups is that vertebrates have a backbone, whereas invertebrates do not. There are thousands of different types of invertebrates. So, scientists divide them into different groups based on their characteristics. This is called classification (see Figure 2).

 

Behavior of invertebrates

 

Due to the fact that invertebrates are really small they can inhabit the tiniest of spaces, which are utilized by other animals or accessible to larger predators. Being so small also means that large numbers of one species can live together (see Figure 3).

 

Tropical invertebrates

 

Invertebrates are the most abundant animals in the rainforest. Invertebrates play an important role in their habitat. They help to distribute pollen between plants and flowers. They also help to breakdown leaves and plants when they die. Invertebrates are a readily available food source for birds, reptiles, and animals living in the rainforest (see Figure 4).<

 

Survival of invertebrates

 

See Figure 5.

 

The Life Cycle of a Butterfly

 

The life cycle of an insect has evolved to ensure their survival. By laying hundreds of eggs in one batch, insects ensure at least some of their young survive. The life cycle of an insect is relatively short, which reduces the window of opportunity for predators to attack (see Figure 6).

 

Life cycle of a butterfly: activity

 

Match the pictures with the correct statements to make a complete life cycle of a butterfly .

 

Have a go: A beetle drive

 

Copy this picture in Figure 7. To play beetle drive, you must take turns to roll the die. Depending on which number you roll, you can color in a different part of the beetle. The first person to complete their beetle and color in 1 head, 1 body, 2 wings, 2 eyes, 2 antennae, and 6 legs is the winner.