Gears & Axles - What is the shield on top of the differential housing for?

I have a 02 Z28 M6 and while I was replacing the rear end cover I noticed a shield type thing that is held in by the top 3 housing cover bolts. My new support cover doesnt allow the shield to be replaced without some modification. Does anyone know what this shield type thing is for and do I really need to put it back on with the new cover??

Thanks
Derek

Its the sheild for rear end failure if it explodes it goes everywhere..... No i cant remember i got a mwc rear know but i think it might of had info of the rear end on it.

Nice of them to include a debris shield - almost like they were fully expecting the 10 bolt to explode :jest:

I never figured out what it was for. So no you don't need it.

i didnt know what it was for looked useless so i didnt try putting it on with my 12 bolt

Is it the little shield to keep heat from the exhaust getting to the brake lines?

It doesn't appear to be a heat shield. Too thick, im just leaving it off. Thanks for the info guys.