alternative definition added about 15 years ago by Andy Deans
The anterior sclerite of a notum. In Apocrita, the mesoscutum is functionally only the area in front of the transscutal articulation; the axilla, although morphologically part of the mesoscutum, is treated as separate (see also axilla).
Reference: Goulet, H., and J. T. Huber. 1993. Hymenoptera of the World: An Identification Guide to Families. Research Branch, Agriculture Canada Publication 1894/E., Ottawa, ON 668 pp.
Cross reference:
None provided.