The lophophore innervation pattern of the inarticulate brachiopod Lingula anatina (Brachiopoda) supports monophyly of Lophophorata.

Lophophore innervation in the brachiopod Lingula anatina has been investigated using immunocytochemistry and laser confocal microscopy. Three prominent nerves, namely, the main brachial nerve, the accessory brachial nerve, and the lower brachial nerve, have been found to extend along each brachium of the lophophore. Tentacle innervation is also described in detail. Comparative analysis revealed homologous nerves in lophophores of brachiopods, phoronids, and bryozoans. Similarities in tentacle innervation in these phyla of invertebrates have been detected. The results obtained confirm lophophore homology in different groups of lophophorates and provide evidence for monophyly of Lophophorata.