Were angels actual participants in the creation of the universe? Have they created species of organisms on their own?

Angels are assistants only. They are an interface between Creator and other aspects of the universe, including all of its beings: angelic, physical, or those in higher dimensions. All beings have creative ability, but this does not extend to the creation of life forms of a complicated sort. That is the essence of Creator’s energy and consciousness, and is not bestowed to portions that act independently of us.