notochords
The notochord is a flexible rod that supports the body of a chordate animal. It is a characteristic feature of the phylum Chordata, which includes vertebrates, tunicates, and lancelets. The notochord is a mesodermal derivative, meaning it arises from the middle germ layer of the embryo. In many vertebrates, the notochord is a temporary structure that plays a crucial role during embryonic development. It provides skeletal support and acts as an organizer, influencing the development of surrounding tissues, particularly the nervous system.
During the development of vertebrates, the notochord typically serves as a scaffold around which the vertebral