Plastron

Definition

The plastron is the ventral (bottom) part of a turtle or tortoise shell. It provides protection to the organism's underside and houses several key anatomical features.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The plastron is composed of bony plates called scutes.
2. It connects to the carapace, which is the dorsal (top) part of the shell, through a bridge structure.
3. The plastron serves as a protective barrier for the turtle’s internal organs located on its underside.
4. In some species, the plastron can be hinged, allowing for limited movement and increased protection.
5. Sexual dimorphism in turtles can often be observed in the shape and size of their plastrons; males typically have concave plastrons while females have flat ones.

Review Questions

Related terms

Carapace: The dorsal (top) part of a turtle or tortoise shell that works with the plastron to protect internal organs.

Scute: A bony external plate or scale overlaid with keratin, found on both the carapace and plastron.

Bridge: The bony structure that connects the carapace and plastron in turtles, providing structural integrity to the shell.