Taxonomic & Identification Keys  

Taxonomy:

A study aimed at producing a hierarchical system of classification of organisms which best reflects the totality of similarities and differences.

Key:

An arrangement of the distinguishing features of a taxonomic group to serve as a guide for establishing relationships and names of unidentified members of the group. (McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms)

Dichotomous:

Descriptive of a structure that divides regularly into pairs.

Dichotomous Key: 

A device of logic used in taxonomy to identify taxa. Dichotomous keys consist of statements arranged in couplets. Based on the correctness of the statement with regard to the specimen at hand, the user is directed to other contrasting statements, and ultimately to the name of the Taxon. (Dictionary of Entomology, Gordh and Headrick)