Vertebrates: Their Role and Function One of the most essential parts of our bodies is our backbone. This is the set of bones that runs along the center of our back, connecting to our brain at the top. All living species that have a backbone are called vertebrates .All mammals, birds and most reptiles are in the vertebrate category. This even includes fish with bones. The backbone is sometimes called a spinal column. It runs down the back of the animal and protects and supports the nerves inside. This is just like a plastic pipe protecting electrical cables inside your home. Without this protective backbone, our nerves that connect with our muscles, arms and legs could easily be damaged.