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Chapter 12: Problem 20

An example of a monotreme is the ..20..

Short Answer

Expert verified
The platypus is an example of a monotreme.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Question

The question is asking for an example of a monotreme. Monotremes are a group of egg-laying mammals.
02

Recall Known Monotremes

Monotremes are a small group of mammals that include species like the platypus and echidnas (also known as spiny anteaters).
03

Select a Common Example

Select the platypus as it is the most well-known example of a monotreme and is uniquely characterized by its duck-billed appearance.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Egg-laying Mammals
Monotremes are fascinating creatures within the mammalian world because they are egg-laying mammals. Unlike the common image of mammals giving birth to live young, monotremes lay eggs. This unique characteristic sets them apart from other mammals. Important features of monotremes include:
  • They possess mammary glands, allowing them to nourish their young with milk once the eggs hatch.
  • Their reproductive process involves laying leathery eggs rather than hardshells like those of birds.
  • Once the eggs hatch, the young are quite underdeveloped and require care and warmth from their mothers.
Understanding monotremes provides insight into evolutionary biology, as they represent a primitive branch of the mammal family tree. Their existence helps scientists study the transition between reptilian ancestors and modern mammals.
Platypus
The platypus is perhaps one of the most unusual and fascinating examples of a monotreme. Native to Australia, it is easily recognized by its distinct features:
  • Its duck-bill, which is used for detecting prey in the water, due to its sensitivity to electrical signals given off by other animals.
  • The webbed feet, which aid in swimming and make it an excellent swimmer.
  • The beaver-like tail that is used for storing fat reserves.
The platypus is not just a peculiar-looking creature; it is also venomous. Male platypuses have spurs on their hind legs which can deliver venom capable of causing intense pain in humans. Despite its strange appearance and features, the platypus is crucial to understanding the diversity of mammalian life and offers insights into ancient mammalian predecessors.
Echidnas
Echidnas, also known as spiny anteaters, are another key group within the monotreme family. These unique mammals are renowned for their spines and anteater-like snout. Important characteristics of echidnas include:
  • Their long snouts which function as both a nose and mouth, adapted to feeding on ants and termites.
  • Their spiny covering, similar to that of a hedgehog, provides protection from predators.
  • Their ability to use their strong claws for digging and foraging.
Echidnas are primarily found in Australia and New Guinea and, like the platypus, lay eggs. After the eggs hatch, mothers carry their young in a pouch until they are more developed. Echidnas' unique adaptations and behaviors make them a significant part of the mammalian genus, providing key insights into evolutionary resilience and adaptation.

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