When you were younger, you may have learnt about a group of organisms called mini-beasts. Animals commonly called mini-beasts include caterpillars, worms and spiders.

Mini-beasts are actually called invertebrates by scientists.

Many invertebrates, like spiders and insects, have a tough outer case to support their bodies (instead of a backbone, like we have).

This case is called an exoskeleton.

From now on, we will no longer use the term mini-beasts, instead we will call them by their proper scientific name: invertebrates!

Invertebrates get around in all sorts of ways. They can fly, slither, swim and walk. 

Let's have a closer look!