A chordate is any member of the phylum Chordata which includes three sub-phyla; Vertebrata (vertebrates), Urochordata (tunicates) and Cephalochordata (lancelets). Chordates usually have a notochord (a stiff dorsal supporting rod) at some stage of their development. In vertebrates, this develops into spine. They also have pharyngeal slits and a tail.
Examples of chordates are vertebrates such as humans, pandas and alligators.
Vertebrata is the biggest group within the chordates. Members of this sub-phylum are characterized by their vertebral column which is made up of several bony vertebrae joined together as a backbone .
Answer: A chordate is an organism in the phylum Chordata (which includes the vertebrates). Every chordate possesses 5 defining characteristics at some point in its life. These include a notochord, a dorsal nerve chord, an endostyle or a thyroid, pharyngeal slits, and a postanal tail. The largest group of chordates are the vertebrates.
