Therefore, dichotomous keys always give two choices in each step. “Dichotomous” means “divided into two parts”. Key Term: Specimen A specimen is the whole, or part, of an organism that has been collected and preserved for display, analysis, or research. Keys consist of a series of choices that lead the user to the correct name of a given item. A dichotomous key is a tool that uses a series of yes or no questions, statements, or descriptions ordered or grouped in pairs in order to identify a specimen within a defined group of specimens. For example, a dichotomous key can be used as a tool for users to determine the identity of items in the natural world, such as trees, wildflowers, mammals, reptiles, rocks, and fish. They are particularly helpful when two species are very similar to one another. The user has to choose from which of the two statements best describes the unknown organism, then based on that choice moves to the next set of statements, ultimately ending in the identity of the unknown.ĭichotomous keys are often used in field guides to help users accurately identify a plant or animal but can be developed for virtually any object. A dichotomous key is a series of statements consisting of 2 choices that describe characteristics of the unidentified organism. DNA analysis) and share information internationally it is important to have systems in place to identify and classify organisms.Ī dichotomous key is a tool that helps to identify an unknown organism. As we continue to discover new species, learn better techniques for analyzing relationships between species (i.e. View and play PowerPoint presentations online.Ĭlassification is very important to the field of biology. This page titled 25.2: Dichotomous Key to Common Fruits is shared under a CC BY-NC license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Maria Morrow (ASCCC Open Educational Resources Initiative).
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