Which one of the following phyla is correctly matched with its two general characteristics?

Options

A. Echinodermata- pentamerous radial symmetry and mostly internal fertilisation
B. Mollusca- normally oviparous and development through a trochophore or veliger larva
C. Arthropoda- body divided into head, thorax and abdomen and respiration by mouth
D. Chordata - notochord persists throughout and separate anal and urinary openings to the outside

Explanation

To solve the question about which phyla is correctly matched with its two general characteristics, we will analyze each statement provided in the question step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Analyze Statement 1: Echinoderms**
- Characteristics: Pentamerous radial symmetry and mostly internal fertilization.
- **Evaluation**: Echinoderms do exhibit pentamerous radial symmetry (having five arms), which is correct. However, they typically have external fertilization, not internal. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.

2. **Analyze Statement 2: Mollusca**
- Characteristics: Normally oviparous (egg-laying) and development occurs indirectly through a larva (trochophore or veliger larva).
- **Evaluation**: Mollusca are indeed oviparous, and their development does involve a larval stage, typically trochophore or veliger. This statement is correct.

3. **Analyze Statement 3: Arthropoda**
- Characteristics: Body is divisible into head, thorax, and abdomen; respiration varies between aquatic and terrestrial forms.
- **Evaluation**: While it is true that arthropods have a body divided into head, thorax, and abdomen, the statement about respiration is misleading. Aquatic arthropods respire through gills, while terrestrial ones use spiracles. This statement is partially correct but does not provide a complete picture, making it misleading.

4. **Analyze Statement 4: Chordata**
- Characteristics: Notochord persists throughout life and separate anal and genital openings.
- **Evaluation**: In chordates, the notochord does not always persist throughout life; in vertebrates, it is replaced by the spinal cord. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.

5. **Conclusion**: After evaluating all statements, only Statement 2 about Mollusca is correct. Therefore, the correct answer is that Mollusca is correctly matched with its characteristics.

### Final Answer:
**Mollusca - Normally oviparous and development occurs indirectly through a larva (trochophore or veliger larva).**

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