CHORDATES Meaning and
Definition
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Chordates are animals belonging to the phylum Chordata, characterized by the presence of a notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail at some stage in their life cycle. This phylum includes a wide range of diverse organisms, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, as well as some invertebrates such as tunicates and lancelets.
The defining feature of chordates is the notochord, which is a flexible rod-like structure present in the embryo. This provides support and allows for some degree of movement. The dorsal hollow nerve cord runs along the back and serves as the central nervous system. Pharyngeal slits are openings in the pharynx that may serve different functions in different organisms, such as gill structures for gas exchange or forming parts of the jaw and throat in vertebrates. Lastly, the post-anal tail extends beyond the anus and is usually present in the larvae or early developmental stages.
Chordates exhibit a wide array of adaptations and variations in their anatomical and physiological characteristics, allowing them to occupy diverse habitats and ecological niches. From the fish that dominate the aquatic environments to the birds that soar through the sky and the mammals that inhabit the land, chordates have successfully evolved to thrive in various ecosystems. Their evolutionary success can be attributed to their flexible body plans, complex sensory systems, advanced neural development, and numerous reproductive strategies.
Common Misspellings for CHORDATES
Etymology of CHORDATES
The word "chordates" is derived from the Greek word "khordḗ", which means "string" or "cord". This term refers to the defining characteristic of chordates, which is the presence of a stiffened rod-like structure called the notochord. The notochord is situated along the length of the body and provides support, giving the group its name.
Similar spelling words for CHORDATES
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