Introduction
Within the animalia kingdom there are 5 classes of vertebrates. These classes are Fish, Reptiles, Amphibians, Birds and Mammals. Vertebrates are considered a class of chordata which means they have a backbone within their anatomical structure. All vertebrates are based on the same four physical body development traits from an embryonic stage;
1. Notochord : This is a long flexible rod-shaped body composed of cells made of mesoderm within the embryos of all chordates. The notochord provides skeletal support throughout the length of a chordate.
2. Dorsol/ Hollow Nerve Cord: This hollow tube made of ectoderm cells develops into the central nervous system, compromising the brain and spinal cord.
3. Pharyngeal slits: Which develop as filter feeding organs,or slits which open to the outside of the body. These maybe used for fish to exchange gases in their environment or the development of ears , a head and neck in land vertebrates.
4. Post Anal Tail: This is a muscular tail which extends past the anus and it is used if required to propel many species who live in aquatic envrionments.
Within the animalia kingdom there are 5 classes of vertebrates. These classes are Fish, Reptiles, Amphibians, Birds and Mammals. Vertebrates are considered a class of chordata which means they have a backbone within their anatomical structure. All vertebrates are based on the same four physical body development traits from an embryonic stage;
1. Notochord : This is a long flexible rod-shaped body composed of cells made of mesoderm within the embryos of all chordates. The notochord provides skeletal support throughout the length of a chordate.
2. Dorsol/ Hollow Nerve Cord: This hollow tube made of ectoderm cells develops into the central nervous system, compromising the brain and spinal cord.
3. Pharyngeal slits: Which develop as filter feeding organs,or slits which open to the outside of the body. These maybe used for fish to exchange gases in their environment or the development of ears , a head and neck in land vertebrates.
4. Post Anal Tail: This is a muscular tail which extends past the anus and it is used if required to propel many species who live in aquatic envrionments.
It is estimated that vertebrates came into existence about 540 milion years ago at the end of the Cambrian period. Vertebrates take their name from the series of bones which form the backbone of the species.
Reference
Adams, Gary, slideshow picture,"Bermuda College Disection Lab" 2013.
PBWorks,"Reptiles=Awesome" retrieved from website April 13, 2013, http://friendsseminarystephan.pbworks.com/w/page/26492247/Reptiles%3Dawesome
PBWorks,"Reptiles=Awesome" retrieved from website April 13, 2013, http://friendsseminarystephan.pbworks.com/w/page/26492247/Reptiles%3Dawesome