Chordata
Chordata
Chordata (pronounced: kor-DAY-tuh) is a phylum in the animal kingdom that includes a large number of diverse organisms. The name "Chordata" is derived from the Greek word "chorda", meaning "string" or "cord", referring to the notochord, a key characteristic of organisms in this phylum.
Characteristics
All members of the Chordata phylum share certain key characteristics at some point during their development. These include:
- A notochord, which is a flexible rod that provides support
- A dorsal nerve cord, which is a hollow cord dorsal to the notochord
- Pharyngeal slits, which are openings that connect the inside of the throat to the outside of the "neck"
- Post-anal tail, which is an extension of the body past the anal opening
Classification
The phylum Chordata is further divided into three subphyla:
- Urochordata (Tunicates)
- Cephalochordata (Lancelets)
- Vertebrata (Vertebrates)
The largest and most well-known group of chordates is the subphylum Vertebrata, which includes animals with backbones, such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
Etymology
The term "Chordata" comes from the Ancient Greek word chorda, meaning "cord". This refers to the notochord, a distinctive feature of organisms in this phylum.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chordata
- Wikipedia's article - Chordata
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