VMBO Year 3 · Classification · Section 4.6

Identifying organisms

What is identification?

Identification means determining the name or group of an unfamiliar organism. Carefully observe features such as shape, colour, leaf arrangement or number of legs. Comparing these features allows you to work towards its identity step by step.

How does an identification key work?

An identification key offers a series of choices. A dichotomous key gives two alternatives at each step, often written as paired statements or yes-or-no questions. Choose the option matching the organism and follow the instruction to the next step. Eventually, the key leads to a name or group.

An example

Suppose you find a six-legged animal with wings. A key might first ask whether wings are present. Choose yes, then continue with the next question, perhaps about the wings' number or shape. Continue until you reach an identification. The key must cover the organism you are studying, and uncertain observations should be checked rather than guessed.