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Why do platypus have webbed feet?
Equipped with sharp stingers on the heels of its hind feet, the male platypus can deliver a strong toxic blow to any approaching foe. The platypus is a bottom-feeder that uses its beaver-like tail to steer and its webbed feet to propel itself through the water while hunting for insects, shellfish, and worms.
How have platypuses adapted to their environment?
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 many feet do platypuses have?
Uniquely among mammals, it propels itself when swimming by an alternate rowing motion of the front feet; although all four feet of the platypus are webbed, the hind feet (which are held against the body) do not assist in propulsion, but are used for steering in combination with the tail.
Are platypuses bioluminescent?
Platypuses glow because of something called biofluorescence. Biofluorescence is when a living organism absorbs short wavelengths of light — from the sun or another light source — and re-emits them as longer wavelengths of light. Biofluorescence is different from bioluminescence.
What are the adaptations of platypus?
Platypus, small amphibious Australian mammal noted for its odd combination of primitive features and special adaptations, especially the flat, almost comical duck-beak-like bill. Adding to the animal’s distinctive appearance are conspicuous white patches of fur under the eyes.
Why does a platypus have webbed feet?
Webbed Feet. As an aquatic animal, swimming is key for survival of the platypus. Luckily they are equipped with webbed feet and a large tail to help them do just that. Webbed front feet help the platypus paddle forward, even against currents.
Can Platypus move out of freshwater?
If necessary, some platypuses are able to move out of the freshwater, and could be seen swimming in the salty water. But this movement is quite rare as platypus mainly need to live in fresh water. Two challenges the platypus may face as a result in that environment may include flooding, fire or drought.
Why is the platypus so abundant in Australia?
The presence of logs, twigs, and roots, as well as cobbled or gravel water substrate result in increased microinvertebrate fauna (a main food source), and the Platypus also tends to be more abundant in areas with pool-riffle sequences. Platypus is endemic to Australia and is dependent on rivers, streams and bodies of freshwater.