Answer and Explanation:
The term dichotomous means branching or separating into two. A dichotomous key consists of a series of characteristics listed and numbered in pairs. Each member of the pair refers to a variation of the trait. To construct the key, the following steps are used:
- Note down the conspicuous morphological characteristics possessed by the organism.
- List and number the characteristics in a series of contrasting pairs of statements
- Use technical terms to avoid lengthy statements.
- The characteristics used should not generalize or overlap.
- The first characteristic listed should be a major one, which places the organisms in two large groups.
- Each statement should also give the identity of an organism or instructions as to the next pair of contrasting characteristics to consult.