Biology: Vertebrates Characteristics

Characteristics of Vertebrates

• Possess a vertebral column (backbone) made up of vertebrae
• Have a central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) enclosed in the vertebral column
• Possess a cranium (skull) that encloses and protects the brain
• Have a defined head and tail region
• Possess a dorsal hollow nerve cord (spinal cord)
• Have pharyngeal slits (gill arches) during embryonic development

Classification of Vertebrates

• Classes:
  1. Mammalia (mammals): warm-blooded, hair, produce milk for young
  2. Aves (birds): warm-blooded, feathers, lay eggs
  3. Reptilia (reptiles): cold-blooded, scales, lay eggs
  4. Amphibia (amphibians): cold-blooded, moist skin, lay eggs
  5. Pisces (fish): cold-blooded, gills, lay eggs

Vertebrate Skeleton

• Axial skeleton: vertebral column, skull, ribs, and sternum
• Appendicular skeleton: limbs, pelvis, and shoulder girdle
• Endoskeleton: internal skeleton made up of bone and cartilage
• Vertebrae: individual bones that make up the vertebral column

Muscular System of Vertebrates

• Skeletal muscles: voluntary muscles that attach to bones and help move the body
• Smooth muscles: involuntary muscles that help move substances through the body (e.g., digestive system)
• Cardiac muscles: involuntary muscles that make up the heart and help pump blood
• Muscle fibers: bundles of muscle cells that contract and relax to produce movement

Learn about the characteristics of vertebrates, including their vertebral column, central nervous system, and distinct features. Understand the classification of vertebrates into different classes and explore their skeletal and muscular systems.