sk(y)üˈteləm noun
( plural scutel·la -lə)
Etymology: New Latin, from scut- + -ellum (neuter of -ellus -el)
1.
a. : a rounded apothecium occurring in lichens and having an elevated rim formed of the thallus proper
b. : the shield-shaped cotyledon of a monocotyledon (as a grass)
c. : the conical cap of the endosperm in a cycad
2.
a. : the third of the four pieces forming the upper part of a thoracic segment of an insect situated between the scutum and the postnotum ; specifically : the scutellum of the mesothorax
b. : one of the transverse scales on the tarsi and toes of birds