Invertebrates are animals that lack a vertebral column or backbone. They are an incredibly diverse group of animals, making up 97% of all animal species on Earth. Invertebrates can be found in a wide range of environments, including on land and in water. Some well-known phyla of invertebrates include arthropods, mollusks, annelids, echinoderms, flatworms, cnidarians, and sponges. Insects, arachnids, and crustaceans are three main groups of invertebrates that are familiar to many people. Invertebrates play important roles in ecosystems, serving as food for other animals, pollinating plants, and controlling pests. Despite their importance, invertebrates are often overlooked in wildlife research and conservation, with priority given instead to studies that focus on large vertebrates.