Question

Write any four important features that all chordates possess.

Answer 1

Answer:

The following are 4 characteristics of phylum chordata:

1) A notochord

2) Dorsal, hollow nerve cord

3) Pharyngeal gill slits

4) Post anal tail

Explanation:

It is important to remember that all these characteristics can be present at any stage in the life cycle of a chordate,

for example:

1) In early chordates notochord is absent in adult form, while in some others it modifies into vertebral column.

2) Nerve cord modifies and forms the brain and spinal cord in higher vertebrates.

3) While present in early chordates and embryonic form of higher chordates, they eventually develop in gill arches(in fish) and jaw and inner ear(in terrestrials).

4) Present in embryonic development but absent in apes and humans.