Grassland animals range from very small aphids and worms to large African elephants. Different continents are home to different species.

Microorganisms

Microorganisms are tiny animals that cannot be seen by the human eye without the help of a microscope. Those found in grasslands are mainly protozoa and bacteria, which live in the root systems of grasses and help with decomposition. Some protozoans live in the intestines of termites and make it possible for the termite to digest the wood fibers they eat.

Invertebrates

Invertebrates are animals that do not have a backbone. The invertebrate population of grasslands consists primarily of insects, such as beetles. One square yard (.08 square meter) of grassland may contain as many as 1,000 insects.

Grubs, termites, and worms are invertebrates that play a key role in soil development. They churn the soil, allowing more oxygen and water to enter it. Worms actually rebuild...