Platypus

Platypus

The platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), also known as the duck-billed platypus, is a semiaquatic egg-laying mammal endemic to eastern Australia, including Tasmania. It is 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.

Taxonomy and etymology

The platypus is the sole living representative of its family (Ornithorhynchidae) and genus (Ornithorhynchus), though a number of related species have been found in the fossil record. The name "platypus" is derived from the Greek words "platys", which means flat, and "pous", which means foot.

Description

The body and the broad, flat tail of the platypus are covered with dense, brown fur that traps a layer of insulating air to keep the animal warm. The fur is waterproof, and the texture is akin to that of a mole. The platypus uses its tail for storage of fat reserves (an adaptation also found in animals such as the Tasmanian devil).

Distribution and habitat

The platypus is semiaquatic, inhabiting small streams and rivers over an extensive range from the cold highlands of Tasmania and the Australian Alps to the tropical rainforests of coastal Queensland as far north as the base of the Cape York Peninsula.

Behaviour and ecology

The platypus is an excellent swimmer and spends much of its time in the water foraging for food. When it is under threat, it will use its venomous spur as a defensive mechanism.

Conservation status

The platypus is not currently considered to be endangered. However, it is vulnerable to the effects of pollution and it is a protected species throughout its range, with the exception of South Australia.

See also

• Monotreme
• Mammal
• Venomous mammal

External links

• National Geographic - Platypus

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