8.02 Safari Quest One—Spineless Creatures

Welcome to Canada! I am Amelia Underwood. Not a very traditional Indian name, I know, but I'm a descendent of the original peoples of the Pacific Northwest—the Mowachaht and Muchalaht. Today, our people are called the Nuu-chah-nulth-aht. Much like our ancestors, we live all along the Pacific Northwest coastal region and follow in their footsteps as fishermen.

I know you've traveled far, and haven't had much time for rest, but your first Safari Quest awaits you! From here, we take a ferry ride to my home—Nootka Sound. While we're on the ferry, let me tell you more about your quest. You'll have time to rest later.

Your first Safari Quest is the discovery and presentation of an invertebrate animal. As you explore, you'll seek out one special example of an animal from this group.

In this activity, you will: relate the structure of representative invertebrates to its methods of obtaining food relate the structure of representative invertebrates to its reproductive adaptations analyze the adaptations of representative invertebrates to their success as a species

Let the Quest Begin

To get started, open, save (as an .rtf), and print the Invertebrate Field Guide.

• You'll complete the Invertebrate Field Guide and submit it as a page to be included in a field guide that BioVentures Unlimited is preparing for its tour guests.
• Make sure to look it over carefully before you get started.
• You can complete some information along the way as you explore.
• You will want to wait on some of it until you have decided upon the invertebrate you'll include.

What Will We Find in the World of the Invertebrate?

As a way to familiarize yourself with this wonderful group of animals, watch the following video. While watching:

• keep an eye out for that special invertebrate you may want to bring back
• seek answers to the two questions below
  1. What percentage of ALL animals are invertebrates?
  2. What are the two ways invertebrates are a positive influence in human lives?

Introduction to Invertebrates (3:20)

Invertebrates are fascinating, aren't they? One of the best places to find a wide variety of invertebrates is in a tidal pool. Our rocky coastline is the perfect place for the formation of permanent tidal communities. We'll be heading down to the shoreline in just a bit to explore. So catch your breath, and let's move on!

Move on to the BioVenture tab to continue this activity.