What are Dichotomous Keys?

Dichotomous keys are tools for the identification of specimens.
A dichotomy is a split into two parts, hence a dichotomous key is one in which each step is split into two choices. A two-way 'decision tree' is much the same thing.

The key is in the form of a series of couplets. Each couplet asks whether the specimen has a particular characteristic or not.

On the next page there is a partial key to the skulls of mammals which should help you to understand how a dichotomous key works. The key has been modified from Will's Skull Page

If you go to Will's site from here then it will display in a new window. Close the window to return here.

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