Question

How is a key helpful in the identification and classification of an organism?

Answer 1

Key

1. Key is an artificial analytic device with a list of statements with a dichotomic table of alternate characteristics.
2. Taxonomic keys are aids for the rapid identification of unknown plants and animals based on their similarities and dissimilarities.
3. keys are primarily based on stable and reliable characters.
4. The keys are helpful in a faster preliminary identification which can be backed up by confirmation through comparison with a detailed description of the taxon provisionally identified.
5. Separate taxonomic keys are used for each taxonomic category like Family, Genus, and Species.