The Closest Group to Humans
Mammals, one of the most fascinating groups of vertebrate animals, stand out for their unique characteristics, such as the presence of hair and the ability to feed their young with breast milk. With species ranging from small rodents to giants such as the blue whale, they are fundamental to the balance of terrestrial, aquatic and aerial ecosystems.
Striking Features
Mammals have some exclusive characteristics that differentiate them from other vertebrates:
Presence of hair: Protects against the cold and helps with camouflage.
Mammary glands: They produce milk to nourish puppies in the first stages of life.
Endothermy: They are "warm-blooded", keeping their body temperature stable in different environments.
Highly developed nervous system, with large brains that enable complex behaviors such as learning and communication.
Mammal Diversity:
Mammals are divided into three large groups:
Monotremes: Mammals that lay eggs, such as the platypus.
Marsupials: Cubs are born prematurely and complete their development in the kangaroo (pouch), like kangaroos.
Placentals: Most mammals, including dogs, elephants and humans, have longer gestations and more developed offspring.
Role in the Ecosystem.
Did you know??