What characteristic defines the Phylum Chordata for Tyrannus verticalis?
Answer
Having a notochord at some stage of development
The Phylum Chordata is characterized by the presence of a notochord during some part of the organism's life cycle. In vertebrates, like the Western Kingbird, this structure provides primary support during early development and eventually evolves into the backbone or spinal column. This anatomical feature is a core requirement for placement within this diverse phylum, which encompasses all vertebrates.

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Which Kingdom does the Western Kingbird, Tyrannus verticalis, belong to?What characteristic defines the Phylum Chordata for Tyrannus verticalis?What features define the Class Aves for the Western Kingbird?What specialized foot adaptation is characteristic of Order Passeriformes?What is the defining feeding strategy of Family Tyrannidae members like T. verticalis?What Latin word gives the Genus Tyrannus its name reference?What feature inspired the species epithet verticalis for Tyrannus verticalis?How does the tail appearance distinguish Tyrannus verticalis from T. vociferans?Where is the Family Tyrannidae geographically restricted?Besides the pale tail edging, what other identifiers separate T. verticalis?