What are pharyngeal slits?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about pharyngeal slits, which are anatomical structures found in the embryonic development of chordates and play a significant role in the evolution of various species. A detailed explanation would encompass their function and importance in both the evolutionary context and developmental biology.
Answer
Filter-feeding and respiratory openings in the pharyngeal region of deuterostomes.
Pharyngeal slits are openings found in the pharyngeal region of deuterostomes, and they function in filter-feeding and respiration.
Answer for screen readers
Pharyngeal slits are openings found in the pharyngeal region of deuterostomes, and they function in filter-feeding and respiration.
More Information
In aquatic organisms, these slits allow water entering the mouth to exit without passing through the entire digestive tract, facilitating respiration and filter-feeding.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse pharyngeal slits with gills, but not all pharyngeal slits develop into gills.
Sources
- Pharyngeal slit - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Morphology of the Chordata - ucmp.berkeley.edu
- Chordates - SUNY Orange - sunyorange.edu
