Scutellum
Scutellum , noun
[New Latin, neut. dim. of Latin scutum a shield.]
1.
(Botany) A rounded apothecium having an elevated rim formed of the proper thallus, the fructification of certain lichens.
2.
(a) (Zoology) 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)
(Zoology) One of the transverse scales on the tarsi and toes of birds; a scutella.