Question:medium

All vertebrates are chordates but all chordates are not vertebrates, why ?

Updated On: May 7, 2026
  • Notochord is replaced by vertebral column in adult of some chordates
  • Ventral hollow nerve cord remains throughout life in some chordates
  • All chordates possess vertebral column
  • All chordates possess notochord throughout their life
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

To understand why "All vertebrates are chordates but all chordates are not vertebrates," let's explore the characteristics and differences between chordates and vertebrates:

  1. Definition and Characteristics of Chordates:
    • Chordates form a large phylum of animals that exhibit certain characteristics at some stage of their development. These characteristics include a notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, an endostyle, and a muscular post-anal tail.
    • The notochord is a flexible, rod-shaped body that provides support.
    • Chordates include various sub-groups, such as vertebrates, tunicates, and cephalochordates.
  2. Definition and Characteristics of Vertebrates:
    • Vertebrates are a sub-group of chordates characterized by having a vertebral column or backbone. This structure replaces the notochord during development.
    • All vertebrates possess a well-defined internal skeleton with a spine.
  3. Explanation:
    • All vertebrates are chordates because they possess the defining features of chordates during their developmental stages. However, they are distinguished by the development of a vertebral column, replacing the notochord.
    • Not all chordates are vertebrates because some, such as tunicates and cephalochordates, retain the notochord throughout their lives and never develop the conditions required to be classified as vertebrates (i.e., a vertebral column).

Given these explanations, the most accurate answer is: Notochord is replaced by vertebral column in adult of some chordates. This accounts for why all vertebrates fall under the category of chordates, but only those chordates with a vertebral column are considered vertebrates.

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