Platypus venom shares some molecules also found in reptile venom, but researchers determined that the platypus' poison capacity evolved separately. Platypus venom probably won't kill you, but it will cause swelling at the wound site and extreme pain that could last for weeks. Although dogs have died from platypus poison, there have been no recorded human fatalities. Even though the platypus only weighs around 5 pounds (2.2 kilograms), if you're engaged in a wrestling match with a male, getting stabbed with a venom-filled spur isn't a pleasant experience. That isn't to say that platypus spurs feel like a meager pin prick. Apparently, the venom isn't meant to kill other males, only to provide for a rousing fight. In fact, the male platypus produces venom mostly during the spring, which just happens to be when platypus couples breed. The only probable explanation that researchers have come up with is that males may use it offensively during mate competition. Put all of these traits together and what do you have? An animal that straddles three classes: mammal, bird and reptile.īut why would the male platypus need venom? The relatively docile animal has few predators, which include carpet snakes, eels and foxes, and doesn't need the toxin for hunting.
Aside from two other mammals - certain species of shrew and solenodons - harboring venom is a trait usually reserved for reptiles and amphibians. Though females are also born with the spurs, they fall off before adulthood. The male platypus has a spur on either hind foot that excretes venom. If you’re ever in Australia, be sure to keep an eye out for this unique mammal! You may even be lucky enough to spot one in the wild.ĭo you have any questions about platypuses or other mammals? Leave them in the comments below! I’m always happy to answer questions about these fascinating creatures.As if egg-laying, nippleless nursing and electroreception in a mammalian species weren't enough for you to wrap your mind around, the platypus has one more curve ball to toss your way. Who knows what else we may learn about this strange creature in the future? This strange animal has a long and fascinating history, and its place in the world is still being discovered. The platypus is a fascinating creature, and its evolution is still being studied by scientists today. The two animals share many characteristics, including their egg-laying habits and their unusual diets. Scientists believe that the platypus is most closely related to the echidna, another strange creature that looks like a cross between a mammal and a reptile. The platypus is also a mammal because it is descended from other mammals. The platypus has a high body temperature, just like other mammals. Finally, all mammals are warm-blooded, meaning that they can maintain a constant body temperature regardless of the outside environment.
The platypus has these glands, and it uses them to feed its offspring. In addition to fur, mammals also have mammary glands, which produce milk for their young. The platypus has a thick coat of fur that helps to keep it warm in its cool, watery habitat. For example, mammals are animals that have fur or hair. The platypus is a mammal because it meets all of the criteria for this classification.
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