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All of these are characteristics of vertebrates except:

a) paired eyes
b) an open circulatory system
c) pharyngeal slits at some point in their life cycle
d) a well-developed cranium

User Charon
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The correct answer is 'b) an open circulatory system' because all vertebrates have a closed circulatory system with a heart, not an open circulatory system.

Step-by-step explanation:

All of these are characteristics of vertebrates except an open circulatory system. Vertebrates are known to have a closed circulatory system with a heart. In a closed circulatory system, the blood is completely contained within blood vessels that carry the blood throughout the body. Vertebrates also exhibit other distinct features:

  • A well-developed cranium to protect the brain.
  • Paired eyes for vision.
  • Pharyngeal slits at some stage of their life cycle, which may develop into gills in fish and amphibians, or contribute to other structures in terrestrial vertebrates.
  • A muscular system and an endoskeleton that provide structure and enable movement.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is 'b) an open circulatory system' as vertebrates have a closed circulatory system, not an open one.

User Javier Ferrero
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