SCUTELLUM Meaning and
Definition
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The term "scutellum" refers to a specific anatomical structure found in various organisms, including plants, insects, and birds. It is commonly defined as a small, shield-like or scale-like plate that covers or protects a particular part or region of an organism's body.
In plants, the scutellum is primarily observed in the seeds of grasses (Poaceae family) such as wheat, barley, and maize. It is a modified cotyledon, which is a seed leaf that provides nutrients to the developing embryo. The scutellum is located on the side of the embryo closest to the endosperm, a tissue that acts as a food source for the growing plant. It plays a crucial role in absorbing and transferring nutrients from the endosperm to the developing embryo during germination.
In insects, the scutellum is one of the prominent parts of the thorax, specifically the mesonotum. It is usually a hardened, shield-shaped structure present between the two pairs of wings. The scutellum provides protection and support to the wings and helps in maintaining stability during flight.
In certain birds, such as members of the order Charadriiformes (shorebirds), the scutellum refers to the scaled area on the tarsus, or the lower leg region. It may consist of several small, overlapping scales that offer flexibility and strength to the leg, enabling the bird to navigate various types of terrain.
Overall, the term "scutellum" describes a small anatomical structure that serves protective, supportive, or nutritive functions in different organisms, depending on their specific biological context.
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In botany: 1. A broad cotyledon, in grasses, covering the albumiuous seed. 2. A flattened apothecium rimmed by the thallus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In bot., the smaller cotyledon on the outside of the embryo of wheat, placed lower down than the other more perfect cotyledon; a sort of rounded shield-like fructification of some lichens.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SCUTELLUM
- acutellum
- zcutellum
- xcutellum
- dcutellum
- ecutellum
- wcutellum
- sxutellum
- svutellum
- sfutellum
- sdutellum
- scytellum
- schtellum
- scjtellum
- scitellum
- sc8tellum
- sc7tellum
- scurellum
- scufellum
- scugellum
- scuyellum
Etymology of SCUTELLUM
The word "scutellum" comes from Latin, where it means "small dish" or "bowl". It is derived from the Latin word "scutella", which means "small dish" or "salver". The term was originally used in medicine to refer to a small, flat, and usually shallow part of the body, particularly in anatomical descriptions. Over time, the word "scutellum" began to be utilized in various fields of study, such as botany and entomology, where it is used to reference specific structures or parts of plants or insects that resemble small dishes or plates.
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