Invertebrates are the most diverse and numerous group of animals on Earth. There are more than 140,000 invertebrates in the United States—a number that is growing as researchers identify more and more species. Of the invertebrates in the U.S., approximately 200 are on the endangered species list.
An invertebrate is a cold-blooded animal with no backbone. Invertebrates can live on land—like insects, spiders, and worms—or in water. Marine invertebrates include crustaceans (such as crabs and lobsters), mollusks (such as squids and clams), and coral.
Insects
Segmented invertebrates with six legs
Worms and Snails
Legless invertebrates
| Earthworms | Kahuli Tree Snails |
Spiders
Wingless invertebrates with eight legs
| Common House Spider | Tan Jumping Spider |
| Tarantulas | Yellow Garden Spider |
Aquatic Invertebrates
Water-dwelling invertebrates, such as shellfish and echinoderms
| Atlantic White Shrimp | Blue Crab |
| Horseshoe Crab | Octopuses |
| Sea Cucumbers | Vernal Pool Fairy Shrimp |
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Learn MoreMore than one-third of U.S. fish and wildlife species are at risk of extinction in the coming decades. We're on the ground in seven regions across the country, collaborating with 52 state and territory affiliates to reverse the crisis and ensure wildlife thrive.
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