I was wondering if anyone could help me to better understand the Dichotomous Key and how to fill one in.
These sites may help you.
http://students.ed.qut.edu.au/n2364379/MDB377/DichotomousKey.html
http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/caer/ce/eek/veg/treekey/index.htm
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Samantha,
A dichotomous key is used to figure out the indentifcation of a given specimen. It lists basically only two characteristics to choose from at a time.--for example blue eyes or red eyes, then this will lead to another set of two choices or the final identity of the specimen.---its scientific name (genus and species and possible subspecies).
Of course! I can help you understand the concept of a dichotomous key and how to use one. A dichotomous key is a tool used in biology to identify organisms or objects based on their characteristics. It consists of a series of paired statements or questions that allow you to make choices until you arrive at the correct identification.
Here's a step-by-step guide to filling in a dichotomous key:
1. Start with the first pair of statements in the key. Each statement will present you with two options.
2. Read each statement carefully and choose the option that matches the characteristics of the organism or object you are trying to identify. For example, the first statement might ask if the organism has feathers or not. If the organism has feathers, you would choose the statement that corresponds to "yes," and if it doesn't have feathers, you would choose the statement that corresponds to "no."
3. Once you have made a choice, follow the instructions given in the key. It may direct you to proceed to another pair of statements or to a specific question further down the key. This process of making choices and following instructions continues until you reach the final identification.
4. Keep in mind that each choice you make will narrow down the possibilities, helping you eliminate incorrect options.
5. Repeat the process for each pair of statements until you have gone through the entire key and arrived at the correct identification.
It's important to remember that the key's effectiveness relies on accurate observations and understanding the specific characteristics being referred to in each statement. If you're unsure about a characteristic, it can be helpful to consult additional resources such as field guides or references about the organisms you are working with.
By following the steps and carefully considering the features of the organisms or objects you're identifying, you should be able to fill in a dichotomous key and arrive at the correct identification.