The Guardian has launched its third Invertebrate of the Year contest, inviting people worldwide to nominate their favourite spineless species. The competition celebrates the importance of invertebrates, which make up over 95% of animal life on Earth.
A Global Competition for Spineless Wonders
Last year's winner was Milnesium tardigradum, a microscopic tardigrade known for its resilience. In 2024, the common earthworm claimed the title with 38% of the popular vote. This year, the contest aims to highlight the diversity of invertebrates, from earthworms to tongue-biting lice.
The rules are simple: previous winners cannot be nominated again, and humans—even politicians—are excluded. The tongue-biting louse, a crustacean that attaches to fish tongues, is one example of the bizarre species eligible.
Why Invertebrates Matter
Invertebrates are essential for pollination, soil health, water purification, and pest control. As biologist E. O. Wilson noted, 'The truth is that we need invertebrates but they don't need us.'
Nominations are open until midnight on July 13, 2026. A shortlist of ten species will be announced on August 3, with voting open until August 17, when the winner is revealed.
