Tunicates belong to which subphylum?

Tunicates belong to which subphylum?

• A. Cephalochordata
• B. Tunicata
• C. Vertebrata
• D. Echinodermata

Answer: (B)

Tunicates are classified in the subphylum Tunicata (also called Urochordata) within the phylum Chordata. They are chordates because their larval stage shows the defining features—notochord, dorsal nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and an endostyle—even though many adults are simple sacs. The distinctive tunic that gives them their name is a cellulose-like covering. By contrast, Cephalochordata includes lancelets, Vertebrata encompasses animals with a vertebral column, and Echinodermata is a separate phylum entirely.

Tunicates are classified in the subphylum Tunicata (also called Urochordata) within the phylum Chordata. They are chordates because their larval stage shows the defining features—notochord, dorsal nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and an endostyle—even though many adults are simple sacs. The distinctive tunic that gives them their name is a cellulose-like covering. By contrast, Cephalochordata includes lancelets, Vertebrata encompasses animals with a vertebral column, and Echinodermata is a separate phylum entirely.