We have developed a dichotomous key from morphological and anatomical studies of Senna species, and want to make sure if it is okay thus;
1. Tress-------------2
1. Herbs or shrubs…………4
2. Leaflets linear……………….Senna simea
2. Leaflets ovate……………….3
3. Seed colour black……………Senna singueana
3 Seed colour white…………….4
4. Fruit hairy…………………..Senna hirsutae
4. Fruit not hairy………………5
5. Seed shaped obovate……….Cassia absus (Syn; Chamaecrista absus)
5. Seed star shaped……………6
6. Abaxial trichomes glandular and multicellular……Senna occidentale
6. Abaxial trichomes non-glandular and multiseriate…….7
7. Adaxial trichmes non-glandular and unicellular……Senna alata
7. Adaxial trichomes glandular and multicellular………..8
8. Abaxial stomata anomocytic………9
8. Abaxial stomata paracytic…………Senna arereh
9. Epidermal cell irregular
9. Epidermal cell polygonal……….Senna obtusifolia
The purpose of the dichotomous identification key is to make the identification of the plant easier. But this key itself looks confusing. At least I don't understand what information it is providing in this form. Moreover, it is definitely not and can not be a taxonomic key.
It seems straight forward. However, as you move down the list, the criteria become harder and more complex. It would be good to diagnose the species based purely on morphological structures, rather than requiring cellular details, which many botanist would not be able to obtain. Also, I think (1) should be 'Trees', not 'Tress'?
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