Which animals is non- chordate ?

Options

A. Herdmania
B. Balanoglossus
C. Branchiostoma
D. Botryllus

Answer

To determine which animal is a non-chordate among the options provided (Herdmania, Balenoglossus, Branchiostoma, or Botrylus), we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Groups**:
- Understand the classification of the animals listed.
- Herdmania belongs to Urocordata (Tunicates).
- Balenoglossus is classified under Hemichordata (Protochordates).
- Branchiostoma is a member of Cephalochordata (Lancelets).
- Botrylus is also a member of Urocordata (Tunicates).

2. **Analyze Each Option**:
- **Herdmania**: As a Urocordate, it is classified as a chordate.
- **Balenoglossus**: Although it has some chordate-like features (gill slits and a dorsal nerve cord), it also has a ventral nerve cord and solid nerve cords, which are characteristics of Hemichordates. Therefore, it is classified as a non-chordate.
- **Branchiostoma**: This organism is a classic example of a chordate, belonging to the Cephalochordata group.
- **Botrylus**: Similar to Herdmania, it is also a Urocordate and thus a chordate.

3. **Conclusion**:
- After analyzing all options, Balenoglossus is the only animal that is classified as a non-chordate.

### Final Answer:
**Balenoglossus** is the non-chordate among the given options.

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