Chapter 29, Problem 2A

Summary Introduction

To write:

The correct term by replacing the given word in italics

Introduction:

Reptiles were the first completely terrestrial vertebrates and are fully adapted to live on land. Characteristics like scaly skin, circulatory and respiratory system and shelled egg allow them to succeed on land. They have common characteristics with other organisms such as the presence of an amnion and other membranes.

Explanation of Solution

Turtles have a protective shell encased in its body that makes it different from other reptiles. Turtles can be aquatic or terrestrial. Turtles that live on land are called tortoises. Many turtles can pull their hands and legs inside their shell to protect themselves against predators. The dorsal part of the shell is called the carapace and the ventral part is called plastron.

Conclusion

Turtles have a hard shell on their body that protects it from predators. The ventral part of the shell is called plastron. Thus, the correct term for the given word in italics is plastron.