Mary Allen
Introduction: The Turtle Shell
The turtle shell is one of the most characteristic features of turtles and has been the subject of fascination for centuries. It is a hard, bony structure that covers the turtle’s body and is made up of over 50 individual bones. The shell is an integral part of the turtle’s anatomy, providing it with protection, temperature regulation, buoyancy in water, and even playing a role in reproduction.
Despite its obvious importance, many people are unfamiliar with the structure and function of the turtle shell. In this article, we will explore the anatomy of a turtle shell in detail, discussing its various components, purposes, and evolution.
What’s in a Name?
The word “shell” is derived from the Old English “scealu,” which means “husk.” This term accurately describes the turtle shell, which acts as a protective covering for the animal’s soft internal organs.
The scientific name for the turtle shell is “carapace,” which comes from the Latin word “carapax,” meaning “crust of bread.” This name was chosen due to the shell’s hard, crusty appearance. The underside of the shell is known as the “plastron,” which is also derived from the Latin word “plastrum,” meaning “breastplate.” These names reflect the shell’s function as a protective covering for the turtle’s vital organs.