Vertebrate Origins, Evolution, and Major Lineages Explained | Chapter 34 of Campbell Biology
Vertebrate Origins, Evolution, and Major Lineages Explained | Chapter 34 of Campbell Biology Vertebrates, with their remarkable evolutionary history and structural complexity, represent some of the most successful animals on Earth. Chapter 34 of Campbell Biology dives into the origin, major evolutionary innovations, and key lineages of vertebrates—from jawless fishes to mammals and humans. This chapter unpacks chordate traits, vertebrate ancestry, the rise of jaws and limbs, and the evolutionary journey that led to terrestrial vertebrates and primates. Watch the podcast summary below, then read on for a detailed breakdown, glossary of terms, and essential evolutionary milestones. Introduction: What Makes a Vertebrate? All vertebrates are chordates, defined by four key characteristics at some stage of life: a notochord, dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail. The earliest chordates—lancelets and tunicates—exhibit these features, offering insight...