characteristics of phylum chordata
Animals of the phylum chordata include vertebrates and several closely related invertebrates. All chordates have the following characteristics at some point in their lives : 1.notochord-cartilaginous rod running underneath, and supporting, the nerve cord.In vertebrates, it develops into the vertebral column.  Chordates (or members of the phylum Chordata), share the following  characteristics:       dorsal nerve cord which is a bundle of nerve fibres which  runs down the back. It connects the brain with the lateral muscles  and other organs.