Animals are a major group of organisms, classified as the kingdom Animalia or Meta­zoa. In general they are multi­cellular, capable of locomotion, responsive to their environment, and feed by consuming other organisms. Their body plan becomes fixed as they develop, usually early on in their development as embryos, although some undergo a process of metamorphosis later on.

The word "animal" comes from the Latin word animal, of which animalia is the plural, and ultimately from anima, meaning vital breath or soul.

Characteristics

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Animals have several characteristics that set them apart from other living things. Animals are eukaryotic and usually multicellular (although see Myxozoa), which separates them from bacteria and most protists. They are heterotrophic, generally digesting food in an internal chamber, which separates them from plants and algae. They are also distinguished from plants, algae, and fungi by lacking cell walls.

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Idaho Mountain Express & Guide: News

Holding On By A Series Of Threads

Rupert House's legacy almost goes boom
The Twin Falls Bomb Squad, now almost regular visitors to the Wood River Valley, were summoned to East Fork on Wednesday after a bit of spring cleaning turned up surprising discovery.
Backwoods buddies with different backpacks
Since emerging from prehistoric eons as a wandering wild animal, the canine has evolved into one of humankind's most inseparable as well as useful companions.
Fire season is upon us
Firefighters quickly contained a wildfire near the Sockeye Campground at Redfish Lake Tuesday evening.
Carey man released, put on probation
A 21-year-old Carey man who was convicted last year of a sex crime against a child was released on probation Wednesday.
Summertime-And The Bike Path Living Is Good


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