Animal phyla are the major groups into which the animal kingdom is divided based on shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships. Each phylum represents a unique body plan and organization, such as the presence of a backbone or the type of symmetry. Examples of animal phyla include Chordata, which includes vertebrates like mammals and birds, and Arthropoda, which encompasses insects and crustaceans. There are over 30 recognized animal phyla, each with distinct features. For instance, Mollusca includes soft-bodied animals like snails and octopuses, while Cnidaria consists of jellyfish and corals, known for their stinging cells. Understanding these phyla helps scientists study biodiversity and evolutionary biology.