Dichotomous Keys

Tool used by a taxonomist to identify an unknown organism is a:

• dichotomous key
• binomial nmenclature
• scientific name
• binomial key

An illustration and a dichotomous key are given. What is the correct classification for this organism?

• Class Insecta
• Order Amblygygi
• Order Araneae
• Order Scorpiones

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

A table of arachnid and insect characteristics is shown. Which characteristic could be used to distinguish between
arachnids and insects?

• Jointed legs
• Body segments
• Presence of eyes
• Presence of antennae

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

A botanist discovers a new plant in the jungle. Which of the
following observations of the plant’s characteristics would be useful in determining its identity with a dichotomous key?

• It was discovered in the summertime
• It is wet from a recent rain storm.
• Its leaves curl up on the edges.
• It is eaten by native jungle ants.

When using a dichotomous key to identify organisms, what do we look at?

• physical features
• weather patterns
• environment
• diet

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

A dichotomous key for trees is provided. Hikers found a tree that has large brown cones and single sharp needles. What species of tree have the hikers found?

• Juniper
• Pine
• Spruce
• Fir

What step do we always start with when using dichotomous keys?

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4

What is the name of bird W?

• Certhidea
• Geospiza
• Camarhynchus
• Platyspiza

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

What is the name of bird Z?

• Certhidea
• Geospiza
• Camarhynchus
• Platyspiza

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

A student discovers an arachnid with a segmented abdomen, long legs, and a tail with no stinger. The student uses the dichotomous key below to identify it. Which arachnid has the student found?

• Whip Scorpion
• Wind Scorpion
• Daddy long legs
• Scorpion

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2