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HomeHomework HelpbiologyChordata (chordates)

Chordata (chordates)

Chordata, or chordates, is a phylum of animals characterized by the presence of a notochord, a dorsal nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail at some stage of their development. This group includes vertebrates such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish, as well as some invertebrate relatives.

intermediate
2 hours
Biology
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Overview

Chordates are a fascinating group of animals characterized by their unique features such as the notochord, dorsal nerve cord, and pharyngeal slits. They encompass a wide range of species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish, each exhibiting diverse adaptations that allow them to...

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Key Terms

Notochord
A flexible rod-like structure that provides support in chordates.

Example: In embryonic development, the notochord is replaced by the vertebral column in vertebrates.

Dorsal nerve cord
A hollow nerve cord located along the back of chordates.

Example: The dorsal nerve cord develops into the spinal cord in vertebrates.

Pharyngeal slits
Openings in the pharynx that are present in chordate embryos.

Example: In fish, pharyngeal slits develop into gills.

Vertebrates
A subphylum of chordates that have a backbone.

Example: Mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish are all vertebrates.

Invertebrates
Animals that do not have a backbone, contrasting with vertebrates.

Example: While chordates are primarily vertebrates, some chordates like tunicates are invertebrates.

Endoskeleton
An internal skeleton found in vertebrates.

Example: The human body has an endoskeleton made of bones.

Related Topics

Evolutionary Biology
Study of the processes that have led to the diversity of life on Earth.
intermediate
Comparative Anatomy
Analysis of the similarities and differences in the anatomy of different species.
intermediate
Ecology
Study of interactions between organisms and their environment.
intermediate

Key Concepts

NotochordDorsal nerve cordPharyngeal slitsVertebrates