What is a chordate? Give an example of a chordate. What is the biggest group with in the chordates?

A chordate is any member of the phylum Chordata which includes three sub-phyla; Vertebrata (vertebrates), Urochordata (tunicates) and Cephalochordata (lancelets). Chordates usually have a notochord (a stiff dorsal supporting rod) at some stage of their development. In vertebrates, this develops into spine. They also have pharyngeal slits and a tail.

Examples of chordates are vertebrates such as humans, pandas and alligators.

Vertebrata is the biggest group within the chordates. Members of this sub-phylum are characterized by their vertebral column which is made up of several bony vertebrae joined together as a backbone.