Scutellum
scutellum (?), n.; pl.Scutella (#). (NL., neut. dim. of L. scutum a
shield.) 1. (Bot.) A rounded apothecium
having an elevated rim formed of the proper thallus, the
fructification of certain lichens.
2. (Zool.) (a) The
third of the four pieces forming the upper part of a thoracic segment
of an insect. It follows the scutum, and is followed by the small
postscutellum; a scutella. See Thorax.
(b) One of the transverse scales on the tarsi and
toes of birds; a scutella.
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