Members of subphylum Urochordata are known as?

Members of the subphylum Urochordata are commonly known as tunicates. These marine invertebrates are characterized by their sac-like body structure and are often found attached to substrates in the ocean. Tunicates possess a tough outer covering called a tunic, which is where they derive their name. They have a complex life cycle that includes a larval stage exhibiting chordate features such as a notochord and a nerve cord. As they mature, tunicates typically lose these characteristics, becoming more simplified and resembling an adult form that is quite different from their larval stage.

In contrast, lancelets, arrow worms, and acorn worms belong to different subphyla or groups within the larger phylum Chordata and, therefore, do not represent members of the Urochordata. Lancelets are part of the subphylum Cephalochordata, while arrow worms (chaetognaths) are a separate group of worms, and acorn worms belong to the phylum Hemichordata. Understanding these classifications highlights the unique qualities of tunicates within the animal kingdom.