T2 - Binomial Nomenclature, what is a vertebrate

Carl Linnaeus

Botanist known for taxonomy organization.

Taxonomy

Science of naming and classifying organisms.

Species

Group of interbreeding individuals producing viable offspring.

Genus

First part of a species' two-part name.

Specific epithet

Second part of a species' two-part name.

Taxonomic hierarchy

Levels of classification from species to kingdom.

Kingdom Animalia

Largest classification grouping for animals.

Phylum Chordata

Group of animals with a notochord.

Endoskeleton

Internal skeleton made of bone or cartilage.

Vertebrae

Bones forming the backbone in vertebrates.

Notochord

Flexible rod providing internal support in chordates.

Dorsal Hollow Nerve Cord

Fluid-filled nerve tube along the back.

Pharyngeal slits

Openings in the pharynx for various functions.

Metamerism

Body segmentation seen in certain chordates.

Myotomes

Muscle segments allowing movement in chordates.

Cephalization

Development of a head with sensory organs.

Bilateral symmetry

Body plan with left and right mirror images.

Coelom

Body cavity lined by mesoderm.

Segmentation

Division of body into repeated sections.

Postanal tail

Extension of the body beyond the anus.

Chordate innovations

Features evolved from invertebrate traits.

Gill arches

Structures in fish for gas exchange.