Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic subphylum within the phylum Chordata: This subphylum comprises marine invertebrate chordates, commonly known as tunicates or sea squirts. These animals are characterized by a notochord present only in the larval tail stage and a protective outer covering called a tunic.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The subphylum Urochordata includes organisms like sea squirts and salps.
  • Scientists study the subphylum Urochordata to understand chordate evolution.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy: Used in formal biological classification to denote a specific group.
  • The class Ascidiacea belongs to the subphylum Urochordata.

Variants and Related Words

• Urochordata (n): Often used synonymously with "subphylum Urochordata" in less formal contexts.
• Tunicata (n): An alternative, synonymous name for the same subphylum.
• Tunicate (n): A common name for any member of this subphylum.
  • A tunicate is a member of the subphylum Urochordata.

Synonyms

• Tunicates: The common name for the animals in this group.
• Urochordates: A direct synonym referring to the members of this subphylum.

Noun

1. tunicates