
Invertebrates
Some of our invertebrates are found nowhere else. For many more, Scotland provides a last stronghold within the UK.
Some of our invertebrates are found nowhere else. For many more, Scotland provides a last stronghold within the UK.
Invertebrates are all animals with no backbone:
Invertebrates make up around 98% of animal life – though no one knows exactly how many species there are. Invertebrates inhabit our land, rivers, lochs and seas. Between land and freshwater alone, Scotland may be home to some 50,000 species.
Some key habitats include:
Invertebrates are vitally important as they:
Similarly, many smaller marine invertebrates, which occur in vast numbers, nourish fish and whale species from tiny sandeels to giant basking sharks.
Lobsters, crabs, langoustine and scallops are invertebrates of great importance to the Scottish economy. They provide a living for many people and a favourite food for many more of us.
Invertebrates are at risk from:
The following guidance on Assessing habitats for deadwood invertebrates is now available to download.
Guidance - Bumble bees - natural mortality
Read our guidance for planners and developers.