Question

What is dichotomous key used in the classification and identification of organisms?

Answer 1

Dichotomous

1. The meaning of the dichotomous is divided into two parts.
2. Therefore the organisms are based on two characteristics and depending on these characteristics their classification is carried out.
3. It is used to identify and categorise organisms and to organize large amounts of information for making the identification of an organism convenient.

Steps to make a dichotomous key

Step 1: Note down the characteristics

Be attentive towards the specimens you need to identify with your dichotomous key. Notice down the characteristics that can be identified.

Step 2: arrange them in order

Start with the most general characteristics.

Step 3: Divide the specimen

Divide your specimen into two groups.

Step 4: Try for subdivisions

Based on contrasting characteristics divide the specimen.

Step 5: Depict a dichotomous key diagram

You can either use text-based or graphical or maybe images of the specimen you are trying to identify.