Dorsal Hollow Nerve CordThis is a characteristic that develops into the brain and spinal cord. The nerve cord runs along the dorsal/ top of the animal. In some Chordates this feature is only present during the embryonic stage.
-Ex.: Humans |
NotochordThe notochord is a flexible, rod-shaped structure located between the digestive tube and the nerve chord. The role of the notochord is to provide support to the embryo and to also develop the system of nerves. In later vertebrate development, it becomes part of the vertical column (the backbone or spine).
|
Pharyngeal gill slits |
Tail |
Are openings in the embryos that will soon develop into the jaw and the inner ear of terrestrial animals and the gills for fish. In the embryonic stages, they help the embryo breathe.
|
Is a skeletal extension of the posterior end of the body, being absent in humans and apes, although present during embryonic development.
|