Discuss the genrall cheractersit and example of chordate
Answers
This phylum is probably the most notable phylum, as all human beings and other animals and birds that are known to you, fall under this phylum. The most distinguishing character that all animals belonging to this phylum have is the presence of notochord.
Chordates show four features, at different stages in their life. They are:
Notochord– It is a longitudinal rod that is made of cartilage and runs between the nerve cord and the digestive tract. Its main function is to support the nerve cord. In Vertebrate animals, the vertebral column replaces the notochord.
Dorsal Nerve Cord – This is a bundle of nerve fibres which connects the brain to the muscles and other organs.
Post-anal tail – This is an extension of the body beyond the anus. In some chordates, the tail has skeletal muscles, which help in locomotion.
Pharyngeal slits–They are the openings which connect the mouth and the throat. These openings allow the entry of water through the mouth, without entering the digestive system.