Origin and Evolution of Vertebrates

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the origin and evolution of vertebrates, as discussed in the lecture notes.

Germ layers

Three primary layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm) in embryonic development.

Deuterosome

A major lineage of animals that includes chordates and echinoderms, characterized by the development of the anus from the blastopore.

Protosome

A major lineage of animals including arthropods and mollusks, characterized by the development of the mouth from the blastopore.

Notochord

A flexible rod that is a precursor to the backbone in chordates.

Gnathostomes

Jawed vertebrates, including all living vertebrates except for jawless fish.

Tetrapods

Vertebrates that have limbs and jaws, including amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.

Amniotes

Animals whose eggs have protective membranes, allowing them to reproduce on land.

Mineralized skeleton

A skeletal structure that has minerals deposited in it, providing protection and support.

Biomineralization

The process by which living organisms produce minerals to harden or stiffen existing tissues.

Rapid Diversification

An increase in the variety of species, often facilitated by evolutionary innovations, such as mineralized skeletons.

Endothermy

The ability of an organism to regulate its body temperature independently of the ambient environment.

Cambrian explosion

A period around 541 million years ago during which most major animal phyla appeared in the fossil record.