Cephalochordata

(noun)

a taxonomic subphylum within the phylum Chordata: the lancelets

Related Terms

Examples of Cephalochordata in the following topics:

  • Chordates and the Evolution of Vertebrates

    • Chordata contains two subphylums of invertebrates: Urochordata (tunicates) and Cephalochordata (lancelets).
    • However, in addition to the subphylum Vertebrata, the phylum Chordata also contains two subphylums of invertebrates: Urochordata and Cephalochordata.
    • Members of Cephalochordata possess a notochord, dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail in the adult stage.
    • Extant members of Cephalochordata are the lancelets, named for their blade-like shape.

  • Phylum Chordata

    • In addition to containing vertebrate classes, the phylum Chordata contains two clades of invertebrates: Urochordata (tunicates) and Cephalochordata (lancelets).