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Dichotomous Keys

1) A tree diagram is constructed that divides the insects into smaller groups based on their traits like number of wings, legs, etc. 2) A dichotomous key is then constructed that provides a series of choices between two alternatives to identify each insect based on their distinguishing characteristics and traits. 3) The key uses specific scientific terms like number of wings and legs, type of mouthparts, and appearance of wings to differentiate between each insect.

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1K views8 pages

Dichotomous Keys

1) A tree diagram is constructed that divides the insects into smaller groups based on their traits like number of wings, legs, etc. 2) A dichotomous key is then constructed that provides a series of choices between two alternatives to identify each insect based on their distinguishing characteristics and traits. 3) The key uses specific scientific terms like number of wings and legs, type of mouthparts, and appearance of wings to differentiate between each insect.

Uploaded by

Tal4shin
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Classification Keys

The best, most easily used type of


classification keys work through a
series of questions on
STRUCTURE..
there are only TWO possible
answers..
this type of key is called
DICHOTOMOUS
Dichotomous Keys
• Are used for identifying and determining the
name of an unknown organism
• The most common keys are the tree diagram
and the dichotomous key
• The dichotomous key requires the user to make
a series of choices between two alternatives to
reach a conclusion
• A tree diagram subdivides a group into smaller
and smaller groups like the branches of a tree
Tree Diagram
A tree diagram is really a draft for the more conventional form of a key
i.e. the dichotomous key.
Science Class

Females Males
Dichotomous Key
This animal has a two chambered heart, the adult breathes air and is
frequently observed in trees near rivers; it mates and lays its egg in the
still waters of the river.

1. a) Organisms with a 4 chambered heart go to 2


1. b) Organisms with less than 4 chambered heart go to 3

2. a) Organisms with hair covering Mammals


2. b) Organisms with feather covering Birds

3. a) Organisms which lay eggs in water go to 4


3. b) Organisms which lay eggs on land Reptile

4. a) Organisms in which adults live on land Amphibians


4. b) Organisms in which adults live in water Fish
What are their names?

1 a. Crest of feathers go to 2
1 b. No crest of feathers go to 3
2 a. Tail feathers banded go to 4
2 b. Tail feathers not banded Fred
Letter Stages Name
3 a. Beak straight Joe
3 b. Beak curved Polly
4 a. Wing shaded Al
4 b. Wing unshaded Suzie
Construct a Dichotomous Key.
Construct a dichotomous key for these insects. You should
first prepare a tree diagram and then the dichotomous key.
Be specific and Scientific.
Acceptable Unacceptable
Number of wings Fat/skinny

Number of legs Red/blue- any colour

Function of legs – hopping, Tall/short


running
Type of mouthparts – biting Big/small
chewing
Appearance of wings – Wide/narrow
scales/opaque
Comparison of size – body is 3 Abdomen is 2 cm long (length of
times longer than wide, abdomen abdomen could vary between
is >2cm; <2cm individuals)

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