Tools
Biologists, including taxonomists, use many tools in their work. They range from simple and inexpensive, such as rulers and hand lenses, to complicated and expensive such as DNA sequencers and microCT scanners. This page contains links to instructions for tools students should learn to use in an introductory class. As with any tool or procedure, becoming a skilled user will require practice.
Hand lenses
A 10X hand lens is invaluable for studying small organisms or obtaining a closeup view of part of a large organism, if used correctly: Hold the hand lens close to one of your eyes and move the object you are studying towards the lens until it comes into focus. If that is not feasible, move your eye, with the hand lens immediately in front of it, close to the object. For a 5 minute video, click here.
Identification keys
Identification keys enable people to work out the name of an organism based on readily observed features. Biologists use two kinds of keys: dichotomous and multiaccess keys. Dichotomous keys are the most common because they are designed for printing and are easier to write than multiaccess keys. Using multiaccess keys requires a computer (or smartphone). They also require more data and are tedious to write. Both dichotomous and multiaccess keys require users to know the names of the parts of the organisms being studied, recognize those parts, and understand the terms used to describe them. This makes starting to use keys frustrating, they are also an effective method of improving one’s vocabulary.
Dichotomous keys
Dichotomous keys include multiple steps, each of which requires the user to choose between two choices (“dichoto” means “divided in two”). Each choice will either direct the user to the next step or provide the name of the organism. There are two sets of instructions on preparing a dichotomous key, one provides instructions for writing a key to 5 different shapes, the other for writing a key to 9 different plant species belonging to 5 different families.
Automated image based identification
Dichotomous keys include multiple steps, each of which requires the user to choose between two choices (“dichoto” means “divided in two”). Each choice will either direct the user to the next step or provide the name of the organism. There are two sets of instructions on preparing a dichotomous key, one provides instructions for writing a key to 5 different shapes, the other for writing a key to 9 different plant species belonging to 5 different families.
