From Encyclopedia Jr, free information reference for Kids
A carapace is a dorsal section of an exoskeleton or shell in a number of animal groups.
Diagram of a
prawn, with the carapace highlighted in orange
[edit] Crustaceans
In crustaceans, the carapace is a part of the exoskeleton that covers the cephalothorax. It is particularly well developed in lobsters and crabs. It functions as a protective cover over the cephalothorax. Where it projects forward beyond the eyes, this projection is called a rostrum. The carapace is calcified to varying degrees from subgroup to subgroup.
[edit] Arachnida
In arachnids, the carapace or peltidium is formed by the fusion of prosomal tergites into a single plate which carries the eyes, ocularium, ozopores (a pair of openings of the scent gland of Opiliones) and diverse phaneres. In a few orders, such as Solifugae and Schizomida it may be subdivided.
The scutes of a tortoise's carapace
[edit] Tortoises
The carapace is the dorsal, convex part of the shell structure of the tortoise, consisting of an external layer of horny material, divided into large plates known as scutes, which overlie a layer of interlocking bones. This construction allows for a sturdy tortoise.
The plastron makes up the other half of the tortoise's shell. All tortoises from sea turtles to box (or painted) turtles and desert tortoises can be distinguished by their species-specific arrangement of scutes.
