Dichotomous Keys, Miscellaneous

Dichotomous Key

A Plants that do not have/produce flowers plant 1
A’ Plants that have/produce flowers
B Flowers that do have/ produce petals plant
B’ Flowers that do not have/produce petals plant
C Plants that have/produce Purple Petals plant 3
C’ Plants that have/produce white petals plant 2
D plants with visible pistils or stamens
D’ plants that lack visible reproductive organs
E plants that produce/have small flowers plant
E’ plants that produce/ have large flowers

4 Comments

  1. Steffi Ickert-Bond

    Thanks Hudson,
    I will let others weigh in on your key as well.

    It is helpful to use an -> after a lead that does not go to a plant, but instead takes you further down the key.

    A’ Plants that have/produce flowers -> B
    B Flowers that do have/ produce petals -> C
    B’ Flowers that do not have/produce petals -> D

    Best, Steffi.

  2. jtream

    Hi! This key seems useful but I agree with Steffi on the leaders. Also, though the descriptors are applicable to the photos, I wonder if some items would be too subjective alone. Like the definition of small and large. Also, if one was unfamiliar with conifers they may not know that they dont produce flowers – just because the photo doesnt contain one doesnt mean they dont have them? Just a thought. Good work!

  3. seschillaci

    Given that there are only 4 pictures, I am able to link each of your descriptions to the pictures I believe. However, reading the key makes me have more questions. I believe all of these plants technically produce flowers? And petals are sort of a tricky thing because they can be fused with other parts, and it’s uncertain whether they still count as petals. Overall, it might be better to stick with slightly more distinctive characteristics.

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