Platypus
Platypus
Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), also known as the duck-billed platypus, is a semiaquatic egg-laying mammal endemic to eastern Australia, including Tasmania.
Pronunciation
- UK: /ˈplætɪpʊs/
- US: /ˈplætəpəs/
Etymology
The word "platypus" is derived from the Greek words "platys," which means "flat," and "pous," which means "foot."
Description
The platypus is one of the few mammals to lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young (viviparity). It is also one of the few venomous mammals, the male platypus having a spur on the hind foot that delivers a venom capable of causing severe pain to humans.
Related Terms
- Monotreme: A group of mammals that lay eggs rather than giving birth to live young. The platypus and four species of echidna are the only monotremes.
- Venom: A toxic substance produced by animals such as snakes, spiders, and platypuses, used to immobilize or kill prey.
- Echidna: A type of egg-laying mammal that, along with the platypus, is part of the monotreme group.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Platypus
- Wikipedia's article - Platypus
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