Classification of Animals Vertebrates Invertebrates

Vertebrates Animals that are vertebrates are simply animals with a backbone. Vertebrates have an endoskeleton. It offers support and protects the soft parts of the animal.

Vertebrates Vertebrates can either be ectotherms or endotherms. Ectotherms (cold-blooded) Body temperature changes to match their surroundings. Endotherms (warm-blooded) Regulate their body temperature so that it remains constant

Vertebrates Vertebrate animals fall into phylum chordata. The chordate phylum is divided into classes. fish amphibians reptiles birds mammals

Vertebrates This chart shows the vertebrates organized into classes. Fish Amphibians Reptiles Birds Mammals

Fish Fish are cold-blooded animals. This means that their blood temperature changes with the temperature of the surrounding water. Most fish live close to the shore in water that is less than 600 feet deep. In the ocean, the deeper the water, the dimmer the light. Many fish that live at 2000 feet or deeper glow in the dark.

Fish All fish have gills. These gills absorb oxygen from the water and pass it along to the bloodstream. A fishes scales are called armor because they protect it. A slimy substance moistens the scales. This protects the fish from infection and helps the fish slip through the water faster.

Fish Fish stay afloat because they have swim bladders. By changing the amount of air in its bladder, a fish never rises or sinks, but stays balanced.

Fish Fins move the fish forward, steer it, and help the fish to keep its balance. The pectoral and pelvic fins are used for balance, steering, and braking. The dorsal fin keeps the fish from rolling over and works along with the anal fin. The tail (caudal fin) provides power, thrusting the fish forward.

Fish Fish are actually divided into 3 different classes. 1. Osteichthyes- Bony Fish 2. Chondrichthyes- Cartilaginous Fish 3. Agnatha- Jawless Fish

Bony Fish Bony fish make up about 95% of all fish. Skeletons are made up of bone. Their scaly skin is covered with a slimy mucous. Their mouth is generally at the front of the body. They have a tail fin. Click the fish to see a diagram of bony fish.

Cartilaginous Fish Cartilaginous fish include the sharks, skates and rays. Although these look different, they have many features in common. None of them have any true bone - their skeleton is made of cartilage. They have strong jaws Great White Shark

Cartilaginous Fish Their mouth is on the underside of their body. Their eyes are on the top of their body. They cannot see food as it enters their mouth. Some sharks solve this problem by touching their food briefly with their nose first. Some also use a powerful electro-sensory system.

Jawless Fish This is a primitive eel-like fish which doesn't have a true jaw, but a sucker-like mouth (like suction cups!) and rasping teeth. There are two main types: Lampreys Lampreys are found in freshwater lakes and streams as well as in salt water. Hagfish Hagfish, or blind eels, are found only in salt water and feed mainly on dead fish.

Amphibians-Class Amphibia, double life These animals have smooth skin. Most spend at least part of their life in water. Amphibians are cold-blooded (hibernate in winter). They usually have three life stages: egg, larva, adult (metamorphosis). Includes: Frogs, Toads, Salamanders, and Newts. Salamander newts toad

Reptiles- Class Reptilia These animals have dry, scaly skin. They are cold-blooded (hibernate in winter). Some live in the water, but most are adapted to life on land. Most reptiles lay soft-shelled eggs, but some bear live young. Includes: Lizards, Snakes, Turtles, and Crocodiles. Fast Fact! Did you know that snakes smell with their tongue! Iguana Turtle Crocodile

Birds-Class Aves Birds are warm-blooded. They have hollow bones and feathers. Most can fly at least short distances. Birds are born from hard-shelled eggs. Includes: Raptors, Gulls, Songbirds, and Fowl. Raptor Gull Fowl

Mammals-Class Mammalia These animals usually have hair/fur. They give birth to live young and feed their young with milk. Have the most complex brains and nervous systems of any animal on earth. Mammals are warm-blooded. Includes: Rodents, Hoofed animals, Marsupials, Bats, Rabbits, Weasels, Raccoons, Bears, Dogs, and Cats. Rodent Bat Dog