9 Important Characteristics of Chordates

Important Characteristics of Chordates are given below:

1) Possesses a Notochord, a hollow nerve cord and a post anal tail.

2) Body has more than two cell layers and includes tissues and organs.

3) Has a U shaped gut.

4) Body has no coelomic body cavity.

5) Body wholly enclosed in a ‘tunic’ of secreted protein and cellulose-like material.

6) Are hermaphroditic, normally with only one ovary and testis.

7) Has a nervous system composed of an anterior ganglion from which individual nerves issue.

8) Has no excretory organs. Has a distinct larval stage.

9) Developments includes free swimming larva stage with advanced characters metamorphosis retrogressive.