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What is a Vertebrate? (Characteristics of Chordates (Notochord (Developed…
What is a Vertebrate?
Characteristics of Chordates
Vertebrates
:
subgroup
in the phylum Chordata
Most chordates are vertebrates
"
At some point in their lives
,
chordates will have
a
notochord
, a nerve chord that runs down their back, and
slits in their throat area
."
Notochord
Developed the name
of the phylum "
chordata
"
A
flexible rod that supports
a chordate's back
Some chordates have
no notochord
; some vertebrates have some or all of their
notochord replaced by a backbone
Nerve Cord in Back
Chordates also have a
nerve chord that runs down their back
This is the
connection between the brain and the nerves
; this is on which
messages travel back and forth
Other
animals do have nerve chords
; however,
not all run down their back
Slits in Throat Area
Slits in the throat area are called
pharyngeal slits, or gill slits
In many vertebrates
, these
slits disappear before birth
Some have these slits for their whole lives
;
all have it at some point in their lives
Keeping Conditions Stable
Vertebrates can
control their body temperature
For
most amphibians, fish, and reptiles
, their
body temperature is similar to the one of their environment
Birds and mammals
have
stable body temperatures
; often
warmer than their environment
Ectotherms
An animal whose body does not produce much internal heat
Body temperature changes
based on the
temperature of their environment
Sometimes called "
coldblooded
"
Endotherms
An animal who
regulates its own body temperature
Body temperature doesn't change much
Can
live in a greater variety of environments
Sweat glands, fur or feathers, help maintain body temperature
Characteristics of Vertebrates
Vertebrates have a
backbone as part of their internal skeleton
This
supports
it and
allows it to move
Backbone
Also called a
spine
; runs down the
center of the back
Formed by
bones called vertebrae
; these
form a chain
The vertebrae have
holes where the spinal chord passes through
; this
chain gives the spine flexibility.
Internal Skeleton
The backbone is
part of a endoskeleton
Protects internal organs
and helps give the body shape
The endoskeleton
also includes the skull and ribs
Doesn't need to be replaced
as the animal grows
Forms the internal shape
of an animal; this is why vertebrates can grow bigger than other animals