Chordata
The Phylum Chordata is comprised of all mammals as well as many other animals. The phylum is all animals with notochords, which may or may not develop into a spine (like mammals). In this phylum, there are three sub-phyla. The first is Vertebrata, or vertebrates. These animals have spines, a more developed notochord. The second sub-phlya is Tunicata, or tunicates. This sub-group is mainly comprised of filter feeders. The third and final sub-phyla is Cephalachordata, comprised of mainly lancelets.
Vertebrata
An example of an animal in the phylum Chordata and subphylum Vertebrata is Anas platyrhynchos, or the Mallard Duck. The Mallard Duck is a widespread species that flourishes in almost any part of the world. Its skeletal system is comprised of various bones throughout its body and a spine running along the center of its back.
An example of an animal in the phylum Chordata and subphylum Vertebrata is Anas platyrhynchos, or the Mallard Duck. The Mallard Duck is a widespread species that flourishes in almost any part of the world. Its skeletal system is comprised of various bones throughout its body and a spine running along the center of its back.
Tunicata
An example of an animal in the phylum Chordata and subphylum Tunicata is Cyclosalpa bakeri, a form of salp. Salps are gelatinous and cylindrical and are found in oceans all over the world. They form large chains and move themselves by propelling water through their bodies. Its skeletal system is comprised of a notochord, and layers of secreted proteins from digested food.
An example of an animal in the phylum Chordata and subphylum Tunicata is Cyclosalpa bakeri, a form of salp. Salps are gelatinous and cylindrical and are found in oceans all over the world. They form large chains and move themselves by propelling water through their bodies. Its skeletal system is comprised of a notochord, and layers of secreted proteins from digested food.
Cephalochordata
An example of an animal in the phylum Chordata and subphylum Cephalochordata is Branchiostoma floridae or the Florida Lanclet. Lancelets are small, fish-like chordates that are found in tropical waters, usually buried under sand. The Florida Lancelet's genome has been mapped. These invertebrates have a notochord and are suprisingly more closley related to vertebrates than tunicates. They have no true skeleton, just a thick layer of cells protecting their notochords.
An example of an animal in the phylum Chordata and subphylum Cephalochordata is Branchiostoma floridae or the Florida Lanclet. Lancelets are small, fish-like chordates that are found in tropical waters, usually buried under sand. The Florida Lancelet's genome has been mapped. These invertebrates have a notochord and are suprisingly more closley related to vertebrates than tunicates. They have no true skeleton, just a thick layer of cells protecting their notochords.