Is a Snake Part of the Phylum Chordata?

Yes, snakes are part of the phylum Chordata. This phylum includes all animals that have, at some stage of their development, a notochord, dorsal nerve cord, and pharyngeal slits. Snakes belong to the class Reptilia within this phylum, which means they share certain characteristics with other reptiles, such as lizards and turtles.

To elaborate, all members of the phylum Chordata can be categorized into three subphyla: Cephalochordata (lancelets), Urochordata (tunicates), and Vertebrata, the latter of which includes all vertebrates, such as mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Snakes, being vertebrates, possess a backbone, which is a defining feature of this subphylum. Their unique adaptations, such as elongated bodies and the absence of limbs, make them fascinating subjects of study within the larger context of Chordata.

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