Which is an example of a vertebrate pest?

Vertebrate pests are characteristic of having a backbone, which is a defining feature of the subphylum Vertebrata. Rodents, which include species such as rats and mice, fall under this classification as they possess a bony skeleton and central nervous system. They are mammals that can cause significant damage to structures, food supplies, and can pose health risks through the transmission of diseases.

In contrast, flies, arachnids, and insects are classified as invertebrates. Flies belong to the class Insecta, arachnids like spiders and ticks belong to the class Arachnida, and insects encompass a vast array of species that also do not have a backbone. The distinction between vertebrates and invertebrates is a fundamental one in biology, and it is essential for pest control professionals to recognize the differences in pest types to implement the appropriate management strategies.