Question

What is the similarity in life cycle of echinoderms and chordates?

• A. Brachiolaria stage is observed in both echinoderms as well as chordates
• B. The tornaria larva of chordates is similar to larval forms of many echinoderms
  
• C. The tornaria larva of chordates is similar to juvenile stage of echinoderms
• D. There is no similarities between the life cycle of chordates and echinoderms

Answer 1

The correct option is B The tornaria larva of chordates is similar to larval forms of many echinoderms

A tornaria is the planktonic larva. This larvae is found in some species of Hemichordata. It is very similar in appearance to the bipinnaria larvae of starfishes. The body of the larvae is with convoluted bands of cilia running around the body. Tornaria larvae eventually metamorphose into young worms.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.