Question

What are the measures used to record descriptions of organisms?

Answer 1

Hint: Taxonomical aid is the method used to record descriptions of organisms. It aids biologists in taxonomic studies. Taxonomy helps to understand the biodiversity in various fields like agriculture, industry and forestry. For understanding the correct identification of organisms, field studies and intensive laboratory testing are essential. Modern system of taxonomy helps to establish evolutionary relationships.

Complete answer:
There are different ways by which we can record a description of organisms. Herbaria, botanical garden and keys are different taxonomic aids available for recording description.
1. Herbaria: They are collections of preserved and dry pressed plant specimens mounted on sheets with detailed information, which are used for long-term and scientific study. Various types of specimens are collected from different sources. Storing wood specimens is called xylarium. Collection of fungi is fungarium.
Botanical Garden: They are large sized tracts where plants of different types in different areas are grown and are maintained for scientific and educational purposes. Examples are the collection of alpine plants, marine plants, cacti and medicinal plants.
2. Keys: They are artificial analytical devices, which are in the form of a dichotomic table of alternate characteristics. They are useful in the identification of species, genus, family, order and class. They are also known as identification keys. They are computer-based devices or printed ones.

Note:
Zoological parks and museums are also taxonomical aids. Zoological parks are also called animal parks or zoos. It is a facility where live animals are housed in an enclosed area under safer conditions and is open to visitors. Museum is a facility where specimens of cultural, artistic, archaeological and scientific significance are conserved. They consist of fossils, fungi, geological samples and animal models.