vertebrált

Vertebrált is a term used to describe organisms that possess a vertebral column, commonly known as a backbone or spine. This defining feature is a series of bones or cartilaginous segments called vertebrae, which protect the spinal cord and provide structural support for the body. Animals with a vertebral column are collectively known as vertebrates, and they represent a subphylum within the phylum Chordata.

The vertebral column is a key innovation that allowed for the development of larger, more complex body forms and enabled greater mobility. It serves as a central axis for the skeleton, to which other skeletal elements attach, and it encloses and shields the vital spinal cord, which transmits nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The presence of a vertebral column is a defining characteristic that distinguishes vertebrates from invertebrates.

Vertebrates encompass a vast array of animals, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. While the exact number and shape of vertebrae can vary significantly across different vertebrate groups, the fundamental structure and function of the vertebral column remain consistent. This evolutionary development has played a crucial role in the diversification and success of this group throughout Earth's history.