Human-Invertebrate Relations: An Overview

This chapter provides an introduction to invertebrates, outlining the major taxonomic groupings that will feature in the remainder of the book. It is noted that most animal species on our planet are, in fact, invertebrates. A detailed review of all the major direct impacts of humans on invertebrates is also provided. Humans kill a very large number of invertebrates every year in a diverse range of contexts. Invertebrates are used as food, feed, material products, in medical and scientific research, and are directly killed in vast numbers in ‘pest’ control operations. If we take seriously the agenda of zemiologists, non-speciesist green criminologists, and those in the effective altruism movement, then the magnitude of the harm inflicted on invertebrates can be considered one of the most important justice issues of our time.