Deuterostomes

Deuterostomes

Animals with bilateral ancestors and radial symmetry.

Phylum Echinodermata

Marine animals with calcium endoskeletons.

Radial symmetry

Body plan evolved from bilateral ancestors.

Calcium-containing endoskeleton

Internal skeleton providing structure and support.

Water-vascular system

Fluid system enabling movement through tube feet.

Tube feet

Extensions used for movement and feeding.

Pedicellariae

Tiny claws keeping surfaces clear of debris.

Catch collagen

Connective tissue changing between solid and liquid states.

Phylum Chordata

Group characterized by notochord and nerve cord.

Notochord

Rod of cells providing skeletal support.

Dorsal nerve cord

Hollow nerve cord running along the body.

Pharyngeal slits

Openings in the throat for filter feeding.

Muscular post-anal tail

Tail structure evolved for aquatic locomotion.

Cephalochordates

Lancelets, small filter-feeders in sandy bottoms.

Urochordata

Tunicates, filter-feeding adults with siphons.

Vertebrates

Animals with backbones and two Hox gene sets.

Neural crest cells

Cells contributing to bone and cartilage structures.