They have three classes of Phylum Hemichordata. Phylum Chordata: Characteristics and Its Classification The chordates were originated from a fish-like ancestor, very similar to the larva of the Ascidia (Tunicata) and it is assumed that they became the ancestor of the chordates by retaining the larval form throughout the life. Phylum Chordata: Characteristics and Its Classification The chordates were originated from a fish-like ancestor, very similar to the larva of the Ascidia (Tunicata) and it is assumed that they became the ancestor of the chordates by retaining the larval form throughout the life. Phylum Chordata Characteristics and Examples. Examples of Phylum Chordata. However, in addition to the subphylum Vertebrata, the phylum Chordata also contains two subphylums of invertebrates: Urochordata and Cephalochordata. Cephalochordate, also called acrania, any of more than two dozen species belonging to the subphylum Cephalochordata of the phylum Chordata.Small, fishlike marine invertebrates, they probably are the closest living relatives of the vertebrates. Chordates and the Evolution of Vertebrates. Sea Squirt This is not an example of the work produced by our Essay Writing Service. The phylum name derives from the Greek root word chord- meaning string. It’s amazing that such small animals can share a significant amount of characteristics with birds, mammals and … How is the phylum divided? The dorsal hollow nerve cord develops into the central nervous system: the brain and spine. In some groups, some of these are present only during embryonic development. Endoskeleton is the chief basic character of the Chordata phylum. Characteristics of Phylum Chordata The Gnathostomata are further divided into six classes: Chondrichthyes, Osteichthyes, Amphibia, Reptilia, Aves and Mammalia. Characteristics of Phylum Chordata Classification of Chordata: 3 Groups Linking to Vertebrates and Invertebrates: There are 3 groups of taxons that link vertebrates to invertebrates. It contains all of the vertebrate animals (fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals), as well as a couple of invertebrate ones. These characteristics are only present during embryonic development in some chordates. This endoskeleton is an important factor in the development and specialization of the higher animals. This chordate belongs to the sub-phylum Vertebrata. The notochord provides skeletal support, gives the phylum its name, and develops into the vertebral column in vertebrates. Man is the most important chordate. You can view samples of our professional work here. Animals in the phylum Chordata share four key features that appear at some stage during their development: a notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail (Figure 2). Characteristics of Chordata.