squamule
/ˈskweɪmjuːl/
noun
- A small, thin scale or scale-like structure, especially on a plant or animal.
- Each squamule on the lizard's back was barely visible to the naked eye.
- Botanists use a magnifying glass to see the squamules on certain mosses.
- The tiny squamules on the butterfly's wing gave it a shimmering appearance.