kuningriikiAnimalia

Animalia, commonly referred to as the kingdom Animalia or Metazoa, is one of the fundamental taxonomic groups within the biological classification system. It encompasses all animals, which are multicellular, heterotrophic eukaryotes characterized by their ability to move and respond to their environment. This kingdom includes organisms ranging from simple sponges to highly complex vertebrates like humans.

The classification of Animalia is rooted in evolutionary biology, reflecting shared ancestry and genetic traits. Animals are distinguished by their cellular structure, which lacks cell walls, and their mode of nutrition, relying on ingestion of organic material. They exhibit a wide variety of body plans, from radial symmetry in cnidarians like jellyfish to bilateral symmetry in most other groups, including arthropods and chordates.

Animalia is divided into numerous phyla, each representing distinct evolutionary lineages. Major phyla include Porifera (sponges), Cnidaria (jellyfish, corals), Platyhelminthes (flatworms), Nematoda (roundworms), Annelida (segmented worms), Arthropoda (insects, spiders, crustaceans), Mollusca (snails, clams), Echinodermata (starfish, sea urchins), and Chordata (vertebrates and their relatives). These groups vary widely in complexity, habitat, and ecological roles.

Animals play critical roles in ecosystems as both predators and prey, contributing to nutrient cycling and biodiversity. They also have significant economic and cultural importance, serving as sources of food, fiber, labor, and inspiration in art and science. Understanding Animalia provides insights into evolutionary processes, ecological dynamics, and the interdependence of life on Earth.