Vertebrate Basics
What is a vertebrate?
An animal with an internal skeleton / vertebral column
Where do fish live?
In water / aquatic environments
Do amphibians live on land, water, or both?
Both
What covers reptile skin?
Scales
What do mammals use to feed their babies?
Milk / mammary glands
Name 3 groups of vertebrates
Fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals
How do fish breathe?
Through gills
What is special about amphibian skin?
No scales, moist
How do reptiles breathe?
With lungs
Are mammals ectotherms or endotherms?
Endotherms
What is the most important bone structure in vertebrates?
The vertebral column
Are fish ectotherms or endotherms?
Ectotherms
What is metamorphosis?
Change from larva to adult
What covers birds’ bodies?
Feathers
What covers most mammals’ bodies?
Hair
Are vertebrates invertebrates or animals with bones?
Animals with bones
What is the lateral line used for?
Detecting vibrations in water
Name the two groups of amphibians
Anurans and urodeles
Are birds ectotherms or endotherms?
Endotherms
Name one type of mammal (reproduction type).
Monotreme, marsupial, or placental
Name ALL 5 groups of vertebrates
Fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals
Name one difference between bony fish and cartilaginous fish
Bony fish have bones / operculum / swim bladder; cartilaginous fish don’t
What is one difference between frogs and salamanders?
Frogs = no tail / long back legs; salamanders = tail / equal legs
What is the keel and why is it important?
Bone that helps birds fly (muscle attachment)
What makes humans special compared to other mammals?
Bipedal / big brain / communication (any one)