|
IS List Insects Arthropod List Other Invertebrates Plant Pathogens Weeds Vertebrates SiteMap IS Home |
Vertebrates
Vertebrates differ from other animals in that they possess
skeletons with backbones. Major groups within vertebrates include mammals,
birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish (bony and cartilaginous). Many species
of vertebrates have accompanied human international movements for food, as work
animals, and as pets. When domesticated animals escape, such as pigs and cats,
environmental problems can arise. A vertebrate invasive species that has been unintentionally carried by
humans throughout the Pacific islands is the Brown tree snake. It has
essentially wiped out the native forest birds on Guam with twelve species of
birds now completely gone from the island. Hawaii is diligently trying to keep
the snake out. |
