Question

The fundamental character of phylum chordata

• A. Presence of mammary gland
• B. Presence of vertebral column and Jaw
• C. Paired appendages which may be fins or limbs
• D. Paired pharyngeal gill slits

Answer 1

The correct option is D Paired pharyngeal gill slits

• The fundamental character of phylum Chordata are:-

(1) Presence of Notochord–

• It is a long rod that is made of cartilage which runs between the nerve cord and the digestive tract.
• It supports the nerve cord.
• In Vertebrate animals, the vertebral column replaces the notochord.

(2) Dorsal Nerve Cord –

• It is a bundle of nerve fibers that connect the brain to the muscles and other organs.

(3) Post-anal tail –

• It is an extension of the body beyond the anus.
• In some chordates, the tail has skeletal muscles, which help in locomotion.

(4) Pharyngeal slits–

• They are the openings that connect the mouth and the throat.
• These openings allow the entry of water through the mouth, without entering the digestive system.

So, the correct answer is 'Paired pharyngeal gill slits'.