Which list correctly names the five vertebrate groups?

Which list correctly names the five vertebrate groups?

• A. Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, Fish
• B. Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians
• C. Mammals, Birds, Fish, Insects
• D. Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, Fish, Amphibians

Answer: (D)

Vertebrates are animals with backbones, and they’re categorized into five main groups: mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Each group has distinct traits that help you tell them apart. Mammals have hair and feed their babies milk. Birds have feathers, wings, and lay eggs. Reptiles have dry, scaly skin and usually lay eggs or give birth to live young. Amphibians start life in water with gills and often metamorphose to air-breathing adults. Fish live in water, using gills and fins. The list that includes all five groups—mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish—covers every vertebrate group, so it’s the best answer. The other options miss one group or include something that isn’t a vertebrate.

Vertebrates are animals with backbones, and they’re categorized into five main groups: mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Each group has distinct traits that help you tell them apart. Mammals have hair and feed their babies milk. Birds have feathers, wings, and lay eggs. Reptiles have dry, scaly skin and usually lay eggs or give birth to live young. Amphibians start life in water with gills and often metamorphose to air-breathing adults. Fish live in water, using gills and fins.

The list that includes all five groups—mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish—covers every vertebrate group, so it’s the best answer. The other options miss one group or include something that isn’t a vertebrate.