scale

scale (sensu Metazoa)

A small rigid plate that grows out of an animal's skin to provide protection. In lepidopteran (butterfly and moth) species, scales are plates on the surface of the insect wing, and provide coloration. Scales are quite common and have evolved multiple times with varying structure and function.

Type Organ
Body System Integumentary
Parent Structure surface structure
Latin Name scale (sensu Metazoa)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scale?
A small rigid plate that grows out of an animal's skin to provide protection. In lepidopteran (butterfly and moth) species, scales are plates on the surface of the insect wing, and provide coloration. Scales are quite common and have evolved multiple times with varying structure and function.
What body system is the scale part of?
The scale is part of the Integumentary.
What is the Latin name for the scale?
The Latin name for the scale is scale (sensu Metazoa).

Related Structures

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