It's heroic, hardy and less than a millimetre long: meet the 2025 invertebrate of the year | Patrick Barkham
Briefly

The recent ballot celebrated the often-overlooked importance of invertebrates, showcasing Milnesium tardigradum, a winning candidate that symbolizes the diversity and vitality of these spineless creatures. Despite their small size and lack of backbones, invertebrates contribute significantly to ecosystems, from pollination to soil fertility. Many people tend to ignore these animals, focusing instead on more charismatic species. However, the article argues for their importance, asserting that without them, human life would be severely impacted, highlighting the need for greater appreciation and awareness of spineless creatures who play critical ecological roles.
Invertebrates are not merely dull little butlers; they are gloriously independent animals serving vital ecological functions, from pollination to maintaining fertile soil.
Microscopic critters like Milnesium tardigradum, celebrated in the recent vote, highlight the overlooked beauty and importance of spineless life forms on Earth.
With only 5% of Earth's species being backboned animals, the vast majority of life flourishes without spines, showcasing remarkable diversity and ecological roles.
The disappearance of invertebrates, crucial for ecological health and human survival, indicates a troubling trend in human-influenced environments that must be addressed.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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