Your spine, or backbone, protects your spinal cord and allows you to stand and bend.

The spines, long and sharp in some species, protect the urchin from predators.

Their barbs and spines protect them in regions where predators find few other pickings.

The rib cage, spine, and sternum protect the human lungs, human heart and major blood vessels.

The ilium and spine protect the digestive and urogenital systems and the hip.

The long spines of the sea urchins protect them from most predators.

The stinging spines protect the quillback from predators.

The central plate protrudes slightly from its surrounding pieces, allowing for a sharp edge, while the softer spine protects the brittle core.

Many animals want the water inside the cactus, but the sharp spines and thick skin protect the cactus.