The Guardian has launched the third Invertebrate of the Year competition, inviting people worldwide to nominate their favourite spineless creature. The contest celebrates the wonder and importance of invertebrates, which make up over 95% of animal life on Earth.
Why Invertebrates Matter
Invertebrates are essential pollinators, soil-makers, and water-cleaners. Without them, human civilisation would crumble. As biologist E. O. Wilson stated, “The truth is that we need invertebrates but they don’t need us.”
Nomination Rules
There are two simple rules. First, previous winners cannot be nominated again. Last year’s winner was Milnesium tardigradum, a microscopic tardigrade. In 2024, the common earthworm won with 38% of the vote. Second, while some politicians may seem spineless, humans are not eligible.
How to Nominate
Nominations are open until midnight on Monday, July 13, 2026. The shortlist of ten species will be revealed on August 3, followed by public voting. The winner will be announced on August 17, 2026.
Submit your nomination via the Guardian’s secure form. Responses can be anonymous, and data will be used only for the competition.
Examples of Fascinating Invertebrates
- Wētāpunga: A giant flightless grasshopper from New Zealand.
- Fen raft spider: A water-walking spider.
- Tongue-biting louse: A crustacean that lives in fish mouths, sharing food with its host.
- Common rotifer: An all-female species that can survive freezing for thousands of years.
- Dark-edged bee fly: A twerking trickster whose larvae consume solitary bee offspring.
Nominate your favourite invertebrate now and help crown the Invertebrate of the Year 2026.
