Vertebrata
Vertebrata
Vertebrata (pronounced: ver-te-brat-a) is a subphylum of the phylum Chordata, which includes species with a segmented spinal column and a well-differentiated head.
Etymology
The term "Vertebrata" is derived from the Latin word "vertebra", which means a joint or an articulation. It was first used in the 18th century by the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck.
Definition
Vertebrata are characterized by their vertebral column, or backbone, made up of individual vertebrae which house and protect the spinal cord. This is a defining characteristic that separates them from other chordates.
Classification
Vertebrata is divided into two main groups: Agnatha (jawless vertebrates) and Gnathostomata (jawed vertebrates). Agnatha includes classes like Myxini (hagfish) and Cephalaspidomorphi (lampreys). Gnathostomata includes classes like Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fish), Actinopterygii (ray-finned fish), Sarcopterygii (lobe-finned fish), Amphibia (amphibians), Reptilia (reptiles), Aves (birds), and Mammalia (mammals).
Related Terms
- Chordata: The phylum to which Vertebrata belongs.
- Vertebrae: The individual bones that make up the vertebral column.
- Spinal Cord: The part of the nervous system that is protected by the vertebral column.
- Agnatha: A group of Vertebrata that includes jawless vertebrates.
- Gnathostomata: A group of Vertebrata that includes jawed vertebrates.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vertebrata
- Wikipedia's article - Vertebrata
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