Epiplastron

/ˌɛpɪˈplæstrɒn/ noun

Definition

One of the small bony plates on the anterior or ventral part of a turtle's shell.

Etymology

From Greek 'epi' (upon) + 'plastron' (breastplate), referring to plates that sit upon the ventral shield of chelonians.

Kelly Says

Turtles and tortoises have epiplastrons that are actually fused bones, and studying them helps paleontologists identify turtle species from millions of years ago.

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