Which of the following is classified as a vertebrate pest?

The classification of a vertebrate pest is based on the presence of a backbone, which distinguishes vertebrates from invertebrates. Among the options provided, the house mouse is the only organism that possesses a backbone, thus classifying it as a vertebrate pest.

Vertebrates include a range of animals such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The house mouse, being a small mammal, fits into this category, making it relevant in contexts involving pest control and management in landscaping and maintenance practices.

In contrast, ants, spiders, and termites are all invertebrates; they lack a backbone and belong to classes such as insects (ants and termites) and arachnids (spiders). Understanding this classification is essential for pest management strategies, as the approaches to control and regulate vertebrate pests differ significantly from those for invertebrate pests.