Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What does the term vertebrate refer to?

1. Animals without backbones

2. Insects with wings

3. Carnivorous animals

4. Animals with jointed backbones

The correct answer is: Animals with jointed backbones

The term "vertebrate" specifically refers to animals that possess a backbone, which is a key characteristic of this group. Vertebrates belong to the subphylum Vertebrata, which includes a diverse range of animals such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The backbone, or vertebral column, provides structure, enables movement, and protects the spinal cord, which is essential for their overall physiology and mobility. This definition emphasizes the significance of the vertebral column in distinguishing vertebrates from invertebrates, which are animals that lack this feature. The other options do not accurately define vertebrates: animals without backbones refer to invertebrates, insects with wings do not encompass all vertebrates, and carnivorous animals may refer to vertebrates or invertebrates, but do not define what constitutes a vertebrate.