Which symmetry do chordates exhibit?

• A. Bilateral
• B. Radial
• C. Asymmetric
• D. Spherical

Answer: (A)

Chordates have bilateral symmetry, meaning their body can be divided into left and right halves that mirror each other along a single midline. This left-right axis supports a defined head end and a centralized nervous system running along the midline, which is a common arrangement in vertebrates and related animals. Because of cephalization and directional movement, the bilateral plan is a natural fit for how chordates grow and function.

Radial symmetry, by contrast, would have multiple planes of symmetry around a central axis (like jellyfish), which isn’t how chordate bodies are organized. Asymmetry describes organisms lacking a clear body axis (such as sponges), and spherical symmetry would imply max symmetry in all directions in a way not typical for chordates. Thus, bilateral symmetry best describes chordates.