Vertebrates are animals that possess a backbone or spinal column, which is made up of individual bones called vertebrae. This group includes a wide range of animals, from fish to mammals, and they are characterized by having bilateral symmetry, a well-developed nervous system protected by a spinal cord, and often a skeleton made of bone or cartilage. Vertebrates are divided into several classes, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. They are found in various habitats worldwide and play crucial roles in ecosystems as predators, prey, and contributors to biodiversity.