Which characteristic common to all Chordata?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Exploring the options presented for the common characteristic of all Chordata, we evaluate each choice in turn.
Option 1: Notocord. This is the correct foundational feature of chordates. The notochord is a flexible, rod-like structure that runs along the dorsal side of the body during at least part of the life cycle in all chordates. In many vertebrates, it is replaced by the vertebral column, but its presence at some stage is what unites the group.
Option 2: Vertebrae. While vertebrae are characteristic of vertebrates, they are not universal to all chordates. Tunicates and lancelets (cephalochordates) lack vertebral columns entirely, so this trait does not apply to all members of Chordata. This makes the statement inaccurate as a defining feature for the entire phylum.
Option 3: Spinal Cord. The spinal cord is a feature associated with the central nervous system of vertebrates. However, not all chordates possess a spinal cord at all life stages (for example, many non-vertebrate chordates have a dorsal nerve cord rather than a differentiated spinal cord). Therefore, this is not a universal characteristic of Chordata.
In summary, option 1 best fits the criterion of a trait common to all Chordata, while options 2 and 3 fail because they are not universal across the phylum and are restricted to particular subgroups.

SMC 2025 Spr - BIOL 3 (1286,1288) - Fundamentals of Biology (G) Quiz 12 Animal Diversity

Which characteristic common to all Chordata?

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