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A taxonomic key, also known as a classification key or dichotomous key, is a series of pairs of related questions that identify an animal or plant according to its order, class or even species.
Here is how a taxonomic key works:
Choose an animal whose order is unknown.
Next, read statements a and b in the first question of the key. Decide which one is related to the animal.
After choosing the answer, look at the end of the line.
If there is a number, this is the next question you must answer. Read statements a and b for this next question and continue this way.
If there is no number, there will be a word. This is the order to which the animal belongs.
You can practise using the fern family taxonomic key using the link at the bottom of the concept sheet.