A New Type of Image-Based Key

Keys are character based tools for plant identification. They are based on the decomposition of the plant into very small, atomistic parts. These parts are described with the technical and often arcane terminology of plant taxonomy. Even the best electronic keys (Delta, Lucid) make use of this terminology. Keys are not based on pattern recognition, the forte of visual experts. Instead they demand that the user look at the plant as if it consisted of a series of isolated parts that are classified by name. Keys would be more effective if they were visually based. They would be easier to use for visual experts because accurate perception is their providence. They would also be easier to use for novices because they would not depend on knowledge of arcane terminology. This paper proposed an innovative image-based key system for species recognition.