Chordates are triploblastic coelmates with bilateral symmetry
All share the same 4 characteristics
3 Subphyla - Urochordata, Cephalochordata, and Verterbrata
Habitat
All over the world, although depending on the Supphyla and classes they might be marine or on land.
3 Interesting Facts
1. The most intelligent species in the world (humans) is in this phyla. 2. This phyla is incredibly diverse 3. We are chordates!
Elephants
Eagle
Sharks
How Many Species Are There?
There are approximately 52,000 species among 5 classes.
Structure & Function
All Chordates have these 4 derived traits: 1. Notochard - A longitudinal, flexible rod located between the gut and nerve cord. Present in all chordate embryos. 2. Hollow Nerve Cord - This develops from the ectoderm. Brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) develop from this nerve cord. 3. Pharyngeal Pouches - Are open to the outside of the body from the mouth. Can develop into gills or parts of an ear. 4. Tail - A tail expanding beyond the anus. Provides much of the propulsive forces in many aquatic species. Is our (humans) tailbone.