What kind of animal is the platypus? We will explain its characteristics, ecology, and habitat. Belonging to the Platypus family, this animal is quite special. Australia’s animals are often very special, and this one is no exception. I will explain the detailed information.
What is a platypus? About basic status
The platypus is an animal belonging to the genus Platypus in the order Monotremes and the family Platypus. The body length is 45 – 60 cm and the weight is 1 – 3 kg. The scientific name is Ornithorhynchus anatinus. Despite being a mammal, this animal still has many mysteries due to its unique reproductive system of laying eggs. Their distinctive feature is their beaks, but there are still many mysteries and research is needed to understand them as living creatures. Photos can be easily found online.
| Japanese（和名） | カモノハシ |
| English（英名） | Platypus / Duck-billed platypus |
| scientific name(学名) | Ornithorhynchus anatinus |
| classification（分類） | Mammalia、 Monotremata、Ornithorhynchidae、Ornithorhynchus 哺乳綱、単孔目、カモノハシ科、カモノハシ属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | NEAR THREATENED |
| Length（体長） | 45 – 60cm |
| Weight（体重） | 1～3kg |
About classification
The platypus was first discovered by Europeans in 1798. In 1800, Johann Blumenbach of Germany wrote the scientific name Ornithorhynchus paradoxus based on a platypus specimen sent to him by Joseph Banks. This species is the only extant species of the Platypus family.
About platypus habitat
The platypus only lives in eastern Australia. It is found only in Queensland, Tasmania, New South Wales and Victoria.
feature is? What kind of creature is it?
The platypus has about 600 hairs all over its body, and its color ranges from brown to brown on the back. Its most distinctive feature is its broad, duck-like beak, which has a rubber-like elasticity, and is able to sense the biological electrical currents of its prey. The limbs are very short, and the front limbs are webbed and have no teeth. Males have tubes in their claws that release venom through glands in their thighs. The effects of the poison are not life-threatening.
What will your personality look like?
Platypus move alone and do not live in groups. Therefore, it is predicted that he is the type who lives a leisurely life at his own pace.
What is the ecology of the platypus?
Platypus live in rivers and lakes, usually in burrows that they dig themselves. The platypus eats dragonfly larvae, crustaceans, and small fish. The platypus has cheek pouches that can be used for temporary storage. Breeding occurs from July to August, and 1 to 3 eggs are laid. Although they are mammals, they are oviparous. Their lifespan is said to be long, around 15 years.
What is the natural enemy of the platypus?
The platypus’ natural enemies are foxes and eagles. By building a nest near the water, the platypus is careful not to be attacked by natural predators.
Is the platypus an endangered species?
The platypus is listed as a near-threatened species. The estimated population is between 50,000 and 300,000 individuals, and they are in a somewhat critical condition. Their population is decreasing due to the following reasons:
habitat loss
Declining habitat quality due to climate change and human activities is becoming a problem. The climate in the areas where platypuses live is undergoing major changes, creating an environment in which they cannot survive.
Decrease due to poaching
Humans were hunting platypus. Due to extensive hunting for their fur, platypus numbers have declined dramatically.
Can platypus be bred?
The platypus is also an endangered species, so it cannot be kept in captivity. It is strictly controlled by the Australian government. You can see it if you go to the zoo.
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