Urochordates

Abstract:

The urochordates, or tunicates as they are often referred to, are an evolutionarily important group of animals. One area of active research is in the area of natural products and the detection and isolation of various antimicrobial and other chemically active compounds. The subphylum Urochordata, once referred to as Tunicata, exists within the phylum Chordata. The urochordates are subdivided into three classes: Ascidiacea, Thaliacea, and Larvacea. Complete body fossils of urochordates are rarely encountered due to the soft structure of their bodies. This chapter deals exclusively with the anatomy of the adult forms. There is extreme variability in the development and differentiation of the larvae of various species, making it nearly impossible to present a generalized anatomical plan. The general anatomy of the thaliaceans is similar to that of the ascidians, with some notable exceptions. Soft tunic syndrome affects older individuals while seeming to spare the youngest animals.

Año de publicación:

2021

Keywords:

• Ascidiacea
• Larvacea
• Urochordates
• Soft tunic syndrome
• Anatomical plan
• Thaliacea

Fuente:

scopus