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Animals - Animalia(Latin - breath, soul): Multicellular organisms that develop from the fertilization of an egg by a sperm. Heterotrophic (obtain food by ingestion). 
Plants - Plantae(Latin - plant): Multicellular organisms that are autotrophic (make complex "food" molecules from basic constituents). Most use photosynthesis. Lichens - Fungi(Latin, derived from Greek - sp(h)onges, sponges): Obtain food through absorption, excrete enzymes for digestion. Ex. molds, mushrooms, lichens. Ecological Systems Ecological systems represent recurring groups of biological communities that are found in similar physical environments and are influenced by similar dynamic ecological processes, such as fire or flooding.
Welcome to our Montana Field Guides. These guides and this website are a collaborative effort between the Montana Natural Heritage Program and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. The Animal Field Guide provides information on identification, habitat, ecology, reproduction, range, and distribution of Montana's animals; new features include a hierarchal approach to finding an animal of interest, thumbnail photos of the animals and additional links. The Plant Field Guide offers information on plant species of concern, including references and photographs.
Select a Field Guide to start browsing or use the Search.
How to use the Animal / Plant / Lichen guide
How to use the Ecological System guide