Chordates and Non-chordates are primarily differentiated by the presence or absence of an important structure called the notochord at some point in their lifecycle. However, there are many more differences that separate these two groups of organisms. Read on to learn the difference between chordates and non-chordates.
| Present (at least in one stage in their lifecycle) | Absent. Non-chordates do not have a |
| Chordates can either be cold-blooded or warm-blooded | All non-chordates are cold-blooded |
| Respiration occurs either through lungs or gills | Non-chordates respire through tracheae, gills or body surface |
| Present | Absent. Hemolymph is present, which is analogous to blood in the vertebrates |
| Chordates are triploblastic | Non-chordates can either be triploblastic, diploblastic, or neither |
| Chordates are bilaterally symmetric | Non-chordates can either be bilateral, radial, bi-radial, or asymmetrical. |
| True coelomates | Can be either true coelomates, acoelomates, pseudocoelomates. |
| Usually present | Absent |
| Present in some animals, such as tortoises. | Present |
| Present | Absent |
| Mostly poor | Mostly good |
| Dorsal, single, without ganglia | Ventral, double, usually bears ganglia |
| Closed | Usually open circulation |
| It is differentiated and opens before the last segment | Usually absent. If present, it opens on the last segment |
| Present, dorsal to pharynx in head | Present in some cases, but nowhere as complex as the brain in chordates. |
| Organ-system | Protoplasmic to organ-system |
| Ventrally placed | Absent. Dorsal/ lateral placement if present |
| Mammals | Arthropods |
- More Difference Between
- Vertebrates: Definition, Classification and Characteristics
- Invertebrates – Types of Invertebrates and its Characteristics
Frequently Asked Questions on Chordates and Non-chordates
Q1
How are chordates different from non-chordates?
Chordates and Non-chordates are primarily differentiated by the presence or absence of an important structure called the notochord.
Q2
Are any invertebrates present in chordates?
Some invertebrates are classified as chordates as they have a notochord, though they lack a proper backbone. Invertebrates that are considered chordates are tunicates and lancelets.
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