Multiple choice Which of the following is not a feature of Vertebrates? Presence of notochord Presence of gill slits or lungs for respiration Presence of water vascular system Presence of bilaterally symmetrical body. Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself C Correct answer Explanation The water vascular system is characteristic of echinoderms (starfish, sea urchins), not vertebrates. Vertebrates have notochord (embryonically), gill slits or lungs, and bilateral symmetry.