Table of Contents
How do platypuses survive?
Platypus is well adapted for semi-aquatic lifestyle. Its streamline body and a broad, flat tail are covered with dense waterproof fur, which provides excellent thermal insulation. The Platypus uses its tail for storage of fat reserves and the strong claws on its feet for burrowing and moving on land.
How is the platypus fur adapted for underwater life?
Aquatic adaptations include the flat streamlined body, dorsally placed eyes and nostrils, and dense waterproof fur that keeps the platypus well insulated. Long guard hairs protect the soft underfur, which remains dry even after hours in the water.
What does platypus fur do?
The body and the broad, flat tail of the platypus are covered with dense, brown, biofluorescent 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.
What is special about platypus fur?
Platypuses have dense, thick fur that helps them stay warm underwater. Most of the fur is dark brown, except for a patch of lighter fur near each eye, and lighter-colored fur on the underside. Their front feet have extra skin that acts like a paddle when the animals are swimming.
Why is the tail important to a platypus?
The Platypus. Not only does the tail work as a good mechanism for swimming but the tail also stores its fat. This is great and an important adaptation because if the platypus is unable to find any source of food, then the source of fat in their tail will provide them with the energy and food the platypus requires.
How long does a platypus stay in the water?
Platypus can stay underwater for up to 10 minutes. When swimming, the platypus moves itself with its front feet and uses its back feet for steering and as brakes. Water doesn’t get into the platypus’s thick fur, and it swims with its eyes, ears and nostrils shut. In Queensland, platypus mate in August.
What kind of body does a platypus have?
The animal is best described as a hodgepodge of more familiar species: the duck (bill and webbed feet), beaver (tail), and otter (body and fur). Males are also venomous. They have sharp stingers on the heels of their rear feet and can use them to deliver a strong toxic blow to any foe.
What is the status of the platypus in Australia?
Conservation status: This species is listed as Special Least Concern in Queensland (Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006). A duck-like bill and shy nature has made the platypus one of Australia’s most intriguing animals. The platypus is one of only three monotremes.