Question

Which of the following show relationship between the members of phylum Echinodermata and Chordata?

• A. $Balanoglossus$
  
  
• B. $Archaeopteryx$
  
  
• C. $Peripatus$
  
  
• D. $Asterias$

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

• Balanoglossus is a marine worm belonging to phylum Hemichordata. Hemichordata was earlier considered as a subphylum under phylum Chordata. But now it is placed as a separate phylum.
• They share characteristics with both echinoderms and chordates. Their adult morphology resembles that of a chordate, while many traits in their larva resemble echinoderms.
  
• Archaeopteryx is a fossil bird showing both reptile and bird characters.
• Peripatus is an invertebrate and connecting link between the Annelida, or segmented worms, and the Arthropoda.
• Asterias (Starfish) belong to the phylum Echinodermata.

So, the correct answer is option A.