What make animals animals?

Animals are multicellular, eukaryotic organisms that are heterotrophic, meaning that they must consume other organisms to obtain energy. They are also motile, meaning that they are able to move from one place to another. Animals typically reproduce sexually, and their offspring develop through a process of embryogenesis.

There are over 1.5 million known species of animals, and they can be found in all types of habitats, from the depths of the ocean to the tops of mountains. Animals play a vital role in the ecosystem, as they are both consumers and producers of food. They also help to cycle nutrients and disperse seeds.

Some of the key characteristics of animals include:

* Multicellularity: Animals are made up of many cells that are organized into tissues and organs.

* Eukaryotic: Animals have cells that contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

* Heterotrophic: Animals must consume other organisms to obtain energy.

* Motile: Animals are able to move from one place to another.

* Reproduction: Animals typically reproduce sexually, and their offspring develop through a process of embryogenesis.

Animals are a diverse and fascinating group of organisms, and they play a vital role in the ecosystem.