Although the scutes form the familiar outer layer of the shell, it is the bony layer underneath which actually provides the shape, support and protective qualities of the turtle shell.
(the scutes; form; the familiar outer layer of the shell) (it; is; the bony layer underneath which actually provides the shape, support and protective qualities of the turtle shell) (the bony layer; actually provides; the shape, support and protective qualities of the turtle shell)
the scutes it the bony layer
form is actually provides
the familiar outer layer of the shell
the bony layer underneath which actually provides the shape, support and protective qualities of the turtle shell
the shape, support and protective qualities of the turtle shell