Key Differences Between Vertebrates and Invertebrates

Vertebrates and invertebrates are two important groups in biology. The main difference between them is whether they have a spine. The following is a detailed introduction and difference between these two types of animals:

Vertebrates:

1. Features:

• Vertebrates have an internal spine, which is a support structure composed of a series of bones or cartilage that surrounds and protects the spinal cord.

• Most vertebrates have a head and a tail, and the body is usually divided into three parts: head, trunk and tail.

2. Nervous system: The nervous system of vertebrates consists of the spinal cord and brain, and usually has more advanced perception and coordination abilities.

3. Circulatory system: Vertebrates usually have a complete circulatory system, including components such as the heart, blood, and blood vessels.

4. Respiratory system: Usually have respiratory organs such as lungs, gills or skin, the respiratory system is more complex.

5. Internal organs: The organs inside vertebrates are arranged in a relatively orderly manner, with a clear organ system.

6. Movement ability: Vertebrates usually have more sophisticated movement functions, such as limbs or fins that can provide more complex forms of movement.

Invertebrates:

1. Characteristics:

• Invertebrates do not have internal specific backbone structures, and their body support structures may be exoskeletons, soft bodies, or other forms of support.

• Most invertebrates have soft and flexible bodies.

2. Diversity: Invertebrates include insects, crustaceans, mollusks, worms, and jellyfish, etc., with a wide variety and large numbers.

3. Nervous system: The nervous system of invertebrates is usually simple, lacking an obvious brain and spinal cord. However, some invertebrates also have developed sensory organs and nervous systems.

4. Circulatory system: Usually do not have a closed circulatory system, but through the body cavity or other means to achieve the transportation of substances.

5. Respiratory system: There are different ways of breathing, including breathing through different pathways such as skin, gills, and trachea.

6. Internal organs: The arrangement of internal organs is relatively simple, and the functional parts lack obvious organ systems.

In general, the difference between vertebrates and invertebrates lies in the presence or absence of a spine, which determines the differences and diversity of their body structure, nervous system, circulatory system and other physiological characteristics.

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