Skeletal System of Chordata
All Chordata have an endoskeleton, or skeleton inside of their body. Their skeletal system usually surrounds their nerve (spinal) chord, which is a distinguishing feature of all Chordata. All Chordata possess a nerve chord, which is essential to all operations in the body of a Chordata. Most Chordata have appendages that are in the form of either arms, legs, wings, or fins. All of these animals show bilateral symmetry as well. The skeletal system in Chordata has changed as it has grown in size, shape, and strength. Some animals still exist today with their skeletal system made mostly of cartilage, a flexible structure compared to the more solid, rigid bones that other Chordata possess.