A dichotomous key is a
A) battery of biochemical tests used to identify organisms in a particular taxon.
B) detailed description of a taxon with diagnostic purposes.
C) registered valid name for a specific taxon.
D) comprehensive list of characteristics that define a taxonomic category.
E) series of yes/no choices that successively narrows down a possible taxonomic category.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A dichotomous key is a tool used in taxonomy that contains a series of yes/no questions, which are designed to help the user identify an unknown organism or specimen. The questions are presented in pairs, each with two possible answers, which lead the user through a series of choices that gradually narrow down the possible options until the correct identification is reached.

A Dichotomous Key Is a