Classification of Vertebrates

Vertebrates are animals that have a backbone. They are grouped into five main groups.

1. Fish

• Live in water.

• Cold-blooded.

• Have scales, fins, and gills.

2. Amphibians

• Cold-blooded.

• Start life with gills.

• Become adults with lungs.

3. Reptiles

• Cold-blooded.

• Have scales.

• Lay waterproof eggs on land.

4. Birds

• Warm-blooded.

• Have feathers and wings.

• Have beaks.

5. Mammals

• Warm-blooded.

• Have hair or fur.

• Most have live birth.

  
  

  Fun Fact

  A blue whale’s heart is so big that a grown human could crawl through its largest blood vessel.