noun
- the flat underside of a turtle’s shell
Usage: zoological
Examples
- The turtle’s plastrum was pale yellow with dark markings.
- Scientists examined the plastrum to determine the turtle’s age.
- The plastrum protects the turtle’s belly from predators.
- Box turtles have a hinged plastrum that can close completely.
- The plastrum is connected to the carapace by bony bridges.
- Damage to the plastrum can be life-threatening for turtles.