Invertebrates are so diverse that they include dozens of phyla (plural). In contrast, vertebrates, animals with backbones, are only a small subgroup within one phylum. Most commonly seen invertebrates belong to one of these six phyla. If an animal belongs to one phylum, it does not belong to any other phyla.

What can invertebrates be classified as?

Invertebrates. Animals can be classified as either vertebrates or invertebrates. Invertebrates are animals that don't have a backbone. Some have soft bodies, like worms, slugs and jellyfish.

How many phylum do invertebrates have?

Summary. There are over 30 phyla dedicated to invertebrates. Major invertebrate phyla that you should know include porifera, cnidaria, platyhelminthes, nematoda, mollusca, annelida, arthropoda, and echinodermata.