Multicellularity: Animals are multicellular organisms, consisting of numerous specialized cells that perform different functions.
Heterotrophy: Animals are heterotrophic, meaning they obtain energy and nutrients by ingesting other organisms or organic matter.
Motility: Most animals exhibit the ability to move, allowing them to search for food, mates, and suitable habitats.
Sensing and Perception: Animals possess various sensory organs to detect their environment, including light, sound, touch, smell, and taste.
Regulation: Animals can regulate their internal environment (homeostasis) to maintain essential physiological conditions.
Growth and Development: Animals exhibit growth and development, often undergoing distinct stages like larval, juvenile, and adult phases.
Reproduction: Animals reproduce sexually or asexually to ensure the continuation of their species.
Response to Stimuli: Animals can respond to changes in the environment through behavioral or physiological adaptations.
Communication: Many animals utilize communication signals, such as sounds, gestures, or chemical cues, to interact with their own species.
Diversity and Adaptation: Animals display an incredible diversity of species, adapted to various habitats and lifestyles, from microscopic zooplankton to massive whales.
Evolution: Animals have evolved over millions of years through natural selection, leading to the development of complex traits and adaptations.