scutes

the pangolin's body is covered in tough, overlapping scutes.

scientists study scutes to understand pangolin evolution.

the arrangement of scutes provides armor against predators.

we observed distinct scutes on the juvenile pangolin.

the scutes are made of keratin, like human fingernails.

damage to scutes can leave pangolins vulnerable.

researchers analyzed scute growth patterns over time.

the texture of the scutes felt rough and protective.

scute morphology varies among different pangolin species.

illegal trade often involves the removal of scutes.

the scutes' unique structure is a key adaptation.