Explanation of Names
From Latin tergum, the back.
Identification
tergum noun, plural
terga - The superior, upper or dorsal portion of a segment (especially of the
abdomen), separated from the venter by sutural lines, and divided into segments which are generally, especially in the case of the abdomen, perforated on each side, by the spiracles. May consist of several
sclerites. See diagram:
tergite noun - a dorsal plate of the exoskeleton, especially of the abdomen. From Latin tergum, the back, plus ite, constituent.
See Also
tergum, tergite (dorsal)
laterogite (dorsolateral)