Final answer:
Neural crest cells migrate through the ventral halves of somites. Somites are mesoderm-derived structures that differentiate into various connective tissues during embryonic development. Crest-derived cells are involved in forming tissues like the peripheral nervous system and facial cartilage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Crest-derived cells, often known as neural crest cells, migrate through the ventral halves of somites during embryonic development. Somites, which are derived from the mesoderm and located on either side of the vertebrate neural tube, develop into connective tissues. The neural crest is part of the neurulation process where the neural plate bends dorsally and the borders of this plate form the neural crest, which further gives rise to various cell types including those forming the peripheral nervous system, facial cartilage, and other tissues.