Echinoderms are marine animals characterized by spiny skin, internal skeletons, and tube feet. They exhibit five-part radial symmetry and have a water vascular system for functions like respiration, circulation, and movement. Echinoderms reproduce through external fertilization and have larvae that swim before settling. They lack complex nervous systems but can sense their environments. Common echinoderms include sea stars, sea urchins, sand dollars, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, feather stars, and sea lilies.