chordate family
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Definition
Noun: A chordate family is any taxonomic family of animals belonging to the phylum Chordata. This phylum includes all animals that possess, at some stage of their life, a notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and a post-anal tail.
Usage
The term is used in scientific classification (taxonomy) to group related genera within the Chordata phylum. It is a formal, biological term.
Examples
- The chordate family Hominidae includes humans, gorillas, and chimpanzees.
- Biologists are studying the evolutionary history of a newly discovered chordate family.
- Dolphins belong to the chordate family Delphinidae.
Advanced Usage
- In cladistics, the definition of a chordate family is based on shared derived characteristics (synapomorphies).
- The classification of a chordate family can be revised as new genetic evidence emerges.
Variants and Related Words
- Chordate (noun/adjective): An animal of the phylum Chordata; relating to such animals.
- The shark is a chordate animal.
- Phylum Chordata: The major taxonomic group containing all chordate families.
Synonyms
- Taxonomic family within Chordata (This is a highly specific scientific term with no perfect common-language synonym).
Notes on Meaning
This term has a single, precise meaning in zoological taxonomy. It does not refer to a human social family unit. The word "family" here is used in its strict biological classification sense, ranking below order and above genus.
Noun
- any family in the phylum Chordata