Which of the following does not belong to the Palaeozoic era?

Options

A. Silurian
B. Cretaceous
C. Devonian
D. Carboniferous

Answer

To determine which of the following does not belong to the Paleozoic era, we need to analyze the options provided in the question. The Paleozoic era is one of the three geological eras of the Phanerozoic eon, lasting from approximately 541 million years ago to 251 million years ago.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Periods of the Paleozoic Era**:
- The Paleozoic era is divided into several periods, including:
- Cambrian
- Ordovician
- Silurian
- Devonian
- Carboniferous
- Permian

2. **Examine the Options**:
- Let's look at the options provided:
- **Silurian**: This is the third period of the Paleozoic era. It is known for the oldest coral reefs.
- **Cretaceous**: This is not part of the Paleozoic era; it belongs to the Mesozoic era, which follows the Paleozoic era.
- **Devonian**: This is the fourth period of the Paleozoic era, often referred to as the "Age of Fishes."
- **Carboniferous**: This is also part of the Paleozoic era, known for its dense forests and coal formation.

3. **Determine the Correct Answer**:
- Since the Cretaceous period does not belong to the Paleozoic era (it belongs to the Mesozoic era), the correct answer to the question is **Cretaceous**.

### Final Answer:
The option that does not belong to the Paleozoic era is **Cretaceous**.