A classification system is a way of separating a large group of closely related organisms into smaller subgroups. With such a system, identification of an organism is easy. The scientific names of organisms are based on the classification systems of living organisms. To classify an organism, scientists often use a dichotomous key. A dichotomous key is a listing of specific characteristics,such as structure and behavior, in such a waythat an organism can be identified through a process of elimination.

Read the information in the “Constructing a

Dichotomous Key” handout

and use the information to

identify the names of the

objects shown on the handout.

Classifying Sharks

Get a Copy of Classifying Sharks

Using a Dichotomous Key from you lab table

Read through

Classifying Sharks

and study the

diagram at the

bottom of the page

Use the Shark Key to identify the 14 members of the

shark family shown on the first page of

your handout

Answer analysis

questions 1 & 2

Use you knowledge of dichotomous keys to

construct a key identifying the fish in

the graphic.