Question

The most important distinctive characteristic of Chordata is the presence of:

• A. Vertebral column
• B. Hairy skin
• C. Notochord
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C Notochord

• The vertebral column is the characteristic of vertebrates only.
• Hairy skin is characteristic of mammals and in mammals, aquatic mammals don't have hair.
• All chordates are characterized by the presence of a notochord. It is a rod-like structure, which provides support to the body of chordates in all embryonic stages and is also, present in some adult stages.

So, the correct answer is option C.