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Zoology

SKELETON IN AMPHIOXUS

By BS MediaTwitter Profile | Published: Thursday, 06 July 2017
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AMPHIOXUS
AMPHIOXUS
Exoskeleton is absent in Branchiostama. Endoskeleton include the notochord, gelatinous rods and plates, fin-ray boxes etc.
 
1. Notochord in Amphioxus: The notochord of Amphioxus is extending the whole length of the body along the mid-dorsal line just below the central nervous system. The notochord consists of a single longitudinal row of cells. The row of cells is enclosed by a thin, elastic membrane surrounded by a thick layer of fibrous connective tissue called the Notochordal sheath.
 
Functions:
 
Its main function is to give support to the body and maintain its shape.
 
It permits slight bending movement of the body
 
Notochord Amphioxus thumb11
 
2. Gelatinous Rods and Plates: The gelatinous rods give support to the bars of the pharynx, oral cirri and free anterior edge of the oral-hood. The rods and plates are formed by elastic fibers.
 
3. Fin-ray Boxes: They give support to the dorsal and ventral fins. They contain gelatinous matter and thick connective tissue covering.
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