Importance of Vertebrates and Invertebrates

No one knows for sure how many species of animals inhabit the Earth. Nearly 10,000 species are discovered every year and add to the more than a million and a half already described. Depending on whether they have a bone system or not, these organisms are classified as vertebrates and invertebrates, all of which are important for life on our planet.

The role of vertebrate animals

Vertebrate species are those that have an articulated skeleton composed of a vertebral column and bones that give them support and mobility. Its body is made up of a head, trunk, and in most cases, limbs. Within this group we can find mammals, birds, reptiles, fish and amphibians.

Human beings have domesticated different types of vertebrate animals, in order to provide food, support in transportation and storage. agriculture, the manufacture of clothing, protection and more recently, the development of some medicines, surgical treatments, personal care and beauty products.

• Fish, for example, are one of the main sources of animal protein, in addition to which oils and vitamin D are extracted.

• Amphibians help humans in many ways. They control unwanted insect pests in forests, farms and gardens. Some of them, like frogs, are used for food. They are also important in the field of investigation, because its skeleton, muscles, digestive and nervous systems are similar to those of other larger animals.

• Birds are used primarily for food, as both meat and eggs can be eaten. They also play a direct and indirect role in agriculture, as they are insectivorous and/or help with pollination and seed dispersal.

• In some parts of the world, reptiles are used as food, but their main contribution is in the field of medicine, since powerful anti-venoms are produced from them. Their skins are used to make bags, belts and other items.

• Finally, mammals serve as a means of transportation and to carry heavy weights. Dairy products and meat are extracted from some of them for human consumption. They provide wool or hides used to make clothing and other products. Many of them also serve as companion or even therapy pets.

Why are invertebrate species necessary?

Invertebrates, on the other hand, have a rigid internal skeleton but unlike the first group, they lack a vertebral column and an articulated skeletal system. Some of these organisms have external protection, in the form of armor. This classification includes arthropods, mollusks, worms, echinoderms, jellyfish, and sponges. They are important to him ecosystem and for him human being, since they help to maintain a healthy environment, on which we depend for our own survival, health and well-being.

There are five main reasons why these organisms are essential for us

1. Pollination: they help flowers turn into fruits and seeds, which will later feed people and other animals.

2. Food for other species: they are a vital source of food for birds, fish and other animals.

3. Pest control: they eat the pests of other insects, helping to maintain a balance in ecosystems.

4. decomposers and cleaners: they help clean the environment because they eat fungi, bacteria, or decomposing matter, turning it into compost to nourish the soil.

5. Erosion: help create and maintain soil quality, which is important for growth in agriculture, gardens, and orchards.

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