Other invertebrates

Invertebrates (animals without backbones) make up the majority of animals on Earth, with many millions of species exploiting the sky, sea, land…and even the insides of other animals. Find out about the good, the bad and the ugly, as we reveal the little-known worlds of some of these fascinating creatures.

British earthworms

There are at least 25 species of British earthworm, read about three of the more common ones. Would you be able to tell them apart?
Chinese mitten crabs

The Chinese mitten crab is having a significant impact on our environment.
The Echinoid Directory

Use our illustrated key to identify sea urchins and their relatives and explore how they live, along with a brief history of the group.
Specimen jar

Rotate our virtual specimen jar, and view molluscs collected during the HMS Challenger expedition from 1872 to 1876.
Land snail

A. haemastoma is a large and beautiful snail only found in Sri Lanka. Take a 360 degree look by rotating our virtual object’s shell.
Woodlouse identification key

This simple key will help you to identify the woodlice that you are most likely to find.
Barnacles: Foul play is a role for specialists (video)

Although they look like molluscs, barnacles are actually related to shrimp and prawns. Phil Rainbow discusses the mysterious barnacles.
Coral reef (video)

Museum visitors and palaeontologist Brian Rosen debate newly published research on coral reefs, including the threats to their survival.
The fascinating world of parasites (video)

Parasites are the cause of much human disease and suffering. Examine these amazingly successful and adaptive organisms up-close.
Sponges: Bathroom beasties to medical miracles (video)

Discover why there's more to a sponge than just a bathroom accessory, with Museum zoologist Clare Valentine.
Parasitic worms in stranded whales and dolphins (video)

Find out the results of the largest ever survey of parasitic worms from stranded whales and dolphins, with researcher David Gibson.
Tapeworms: Hanging on in there (video)

Museum researcher Arlene Jones explores how parasites have so successfully exploited the predator-prey relationship.
The secret life of barnacles

Barnacles are not only zoologically fascinating but are also economically important. Find out how and why with zoologist Phil Rainbow.
Preparation of giant squid video (video)

Natural History Museum scientists prepare the giant squid for temporary storage until a special tank is built to display the 8.62-metre-long specimen.