Zoology Exercise #5: Introduction to Animal Classification Name: ____________________________

Exercise 5A: Use of a Taxonomic Key for Animal Identification

Pre-Lab Questions (Use the packet provided)

1. Define “Taxonomy”.

2. Hundreds of thousands of different species of animals have been classified into phyla or (sing. Phylum). How are thesemembers compared in order to classify them?

3. List the traditional Linnaean classification groups (taxa).

4. Describe “binomial nomenclature”, making sure to reference the rules associated with this method of naming.

5. What is a “taxonomic key”?

6. Explain how to use a taxonomic key.

7. Of the specimens available, select one and use the “Key to the Major Animal Taxa” and the instructions contained in your labpacket to identify the “Class” each specimen belongs to. YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO IDENTIFY 12 SPECIMENS.

Specimen # Taxonomic Key # Sequence Used Class Name of Specimen Being Identified

8. Now, using the pictures provided, develop a Taxonomic Key that could be used to help someone distinguish between the 5 different species of woodpecker. Use the space below.