Vertebrates and Tunicates Share

Question

Vertebrates and tunicates share
A) jaws adapted for feeding.
B) a high degree of cephalization.
C) the formation of structures from the neural crest.
D) an endoskeleton that includes a skull.
E) a notochord and a dorsal, hollow nerve cord.

Accepted Answer

Vertebrates and tunicates share the presence of a notochord and a dorsal, hollow nerve cord. This is a defining characteristic of the chordate phylum, to which both groups belong. While both groups have evolved distinct adaptations, such as jaws and a skull in vertebrates, the common features of a notochord and dorsal, hollow nerve cord are fundamental to chordate anatomy.