What embryonic feature confirms the Eastern Worm Snake's placement within the Phylum Chordata?

Answer

Possession of a notochord and a dorsal hollow nerve cord during embryonic development

Membership in the Phylum Chordata is established based on the presence of four key anatomical features at some point during the life cycle of the organism. These features are the notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail. While an adult snake, like *Carphophis amoenus*, may not retain these structures in their most primitive form—for instance, the notochord is largely replaced by the vertebral column—their embryonic development confirms this ancient evolutionary lineage. The presence of these distinct structures early in development is the definitive criterion for inclusion in Chordata, placing the snake alongside vertebrates like fish, birds, and mammals.

What embryonic feature confirms the Eastern Worm Snake's placement within the Phylum Chordata?

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animalclassificationsciencereptileWorm Snake