Vertebrates (/ ˈvɜːrtəbrɪt, - ˌbreɪt /), [3] also called craniates, are animals with a vertebral column and a cranium. The vertebral column surrounds and protects the spinal cord, while the cranium protects the …

Dec 15, 2025 · Vertebrates are defined by having backbones, a muscular system with bilaterally paired masses, and a central nervous system partly enclosed within the backbone.

Jun 29, 2022 · There are five main groups of vertebrates: fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Vertebrates can be either cold-blooded (ectothermic) or warm-blooded (endothermic). …

6 days ago · Discover the single anatomical feature that unites all vertebrates and explore the immense scope of this essential animal group.

4 days ago · Thus, vertebrates refer to animals with a characteristic bony or cartilaginous axial endoskeleton known as the vertebral column, spine, or backbone. Fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, …

Mar 17, 2025 · Vertebrates are classified into five main groups: fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, each with unique features and adaptations to their habitats. Vertebrates display diverse …

Vertebrates, which include fishes, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals, all share a vertebral column, or a chain of bony elements (vertebrae) that run along the dorsal surface from head to tail …

Vertebrates are among the most complex and fascinating organisms on Earth. Characterized by their backbone or vertebral column, they belong to the subphylum Vertebrata within the phylum Chordata. …

Vertebrates have a long history on this earth -- more than 500 million years, from the late Cambrian up to today. These first vertebrates lacked jaws, like the living hagfish and lampreys.

Sep 17, 2012 · What Are Vertebrates? Vertebrates are animals that have backbones inside their bodies. “Vertebrates use their backbones for movement and support,” explains the American Museum of …