Which class of animals accounts for about 10% of known species?

Mammals account for approximately 10% of known species due to their unique characteristics and evolutionary history. This class includes a diverse array of animals ranging from rodents and bats to large mammals like elephants and whales. The percentage represents the estimated diversity within the animal kingdom, where mammals stand out as a distinct group defined by features such as being warm-blooded, having fur or hair, and most possessing mammary glands that allow them to nurse their young.

This figure reflects a broad classification of species and emphasizes the significance of mammals in the overall biodiversity of our planet. While birds, amphibians, and reptiles also contribute to the richness of animal diversity, they each represent different ecological niches and evolutionary adaptations. Their percentages of known species differ due to variations in species discovery and classification efforts, but mammals are specifically notable for their representation in ecosystems across different continents.