Chapter 23: Question 5

Offer a description of an adult tunicate that would identify it as a chordate, yet distinguish it from any other chordate group.

Adult tunicates are distinguished by the usually tough, nonliving tunic that surrounds the animal and contains cellulose. The larval form bears all 5 of the chordate hallmarks, which identifies the adult as a chordate.

They are different from other chordates because they are sessile, and lose brain function after they turn into adults.

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