Notochord (chord – string) is a long, flexible rod-like structure that provides support to the body. Animals that possess notochord are called chordates and animals without notochord are called non-chordates, e.g. platyhelminthes, porifera, coelenterata, nematoda, annelida, arthropoda, mollusca, echinodermata, etc. are all non-chordates.
Vertebrata - The members of vertebrata possess notochord during the embryonic period. The notochord is later replaced by a cartilaginous or bony vertebral column in the adult. Thus, all vertebrates are chordates, but not all chordates are vertebrates.