Vertebrate Classification

Front

What is a vertebrate?

Back

A vertebrate is an animal that has a backbone or spinal column.

Front

What are the main groups of vertebrates?

Back

The main groups of vertebrates are mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.

Front

What is a mammal?

Back

Mammals are warm-blooded vertebrates that have hair or fur and produce milk to feed their young.

Front

What is a bird?

Back

Birds are warm-blooded vertebrates with feathers, wings, and most can fly. They lay eggs.

Front

What is a reptile?

Back

Reptiles are cold-blooded vertebrates that have scales, lay eggs, and often live on land.

Front

What is an amphibian?

Back

Amphibians are cold-blooded vertebrates that can live both in water and on land. They usually start life as larvae in water.

Front

What is a fish?

Back

Fish are cold-blooded vertebrates that live in water, have gills for breathing, and usually have scales.

Front

What is the defining characteristic of all vertebrates?

Back

All vertebrates have a backbone or spinal column.

Front

How do mammals care for their young?

Back

Mammals care for their young by giving birth to live babies and feeding them with milk.

Front

What is the difference between warm-blooded and cold-blooded animals?

Back

Warm-blooded animals can regulate their body temperature internally, while cold-blooded animals depend on external sources to regulate their temperature.