Question

2. Can more than one dichotomous key be developed to identify the same group of organisms? Explain. To answer this question, refer to this lesson’s dichotomous key for birds.

Answer 1

Multiple dichotomous keys can be created for the same group of organisms as they are derived from different sets of observable characteristics and the process may vary depending on the traits chosen for identification.

Step-by-step explanation:

Yes, more than one dichotomous key can be developed to identify the same group of organisms. Since a dichotomous key is built on a series of choices that lead to the identification of an organism, different scientists may use different sets of observable characteristics to begin their key. For example, one key may start with wing shape, while another may start with beak length when identifying birds. Constructing a dichotomous key involves choosing characteristics that are easily observable and binary, such as color, presence or absence of a structure, etc. The goal is to keep dividing the group until you reach identification at the species level. Therefore, the process and logic used to create a dichotomous key can differ based on the chosen characteristics and the order in which they are applied.

Answer 2

It definitely can be developed. The reason for that is that every single organism has many different characteristics which makes it unique. Have in mind that a person who writes a key might be able to choose different characteristics than another person would use. Many characteristec like the type of skin, the type of breathing, what type of hair or fur they have, help a lot to identify the same gruop of organisms