New proteins identified in epididymal fluid from the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus).

Defensins and the convergent evolution of platypus and reptile venom genes.

When the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) was first discovered, it was thought to be a taxidermist's hoax, as it has a blend of mammalian and reptilian features. It is a most remarkable mammal, not only because it lays eggs but also because it is venomous. Rather than delivering venom through a bite, as do snakes and shrews, male platypuses have venomous spurs on each hind leg. The platypus ...

New information about the skull and dentary of the Miocene platypus Obdurodon dicksoni, and a discussion of ornithorhynchid relationships.

A reconstruction of the skull, dentary and dentition of the middle Miocene ornithorhynchid Obdurodon dicksoni has been made possible by acquisition of nearly complete cranial and dental material. Access to new anatomical work on the living platypus, Ornithorhynchus anatinus, and the present comparative study of the cranial foramina of Ob. dicksoni and Or. anatinus have provided new insights int...

Physical properties of habitats occupied by platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in undisturbed and recently disturbed sites along rifle creek, Far North Queensland

The platypus, (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), is an endemic species to Australia that spends all of its life in and around riverine areas. This study compared physical characteristics of four different sites (two undisturbed, two disturbed less than one year ago) located on Rifle Creek in Far North Queensland. The site with more platypus sightings was grazed by cattle until January 2011. The two pr...

Energetics of swimming by the platypus Ornithorhynchus anatinus: metabolic effort associated with rowing.

The metabolism of swimming in the platypus Ornithorhynchus anatinus Shaw was studied by measurement of oxygen consumption in a recirculating water flume. Platypuses swam against a constant water current of 0.45-1.0 ms-1. Animals used a rowing stroke and alternated bouts of surface and submerged swimming. Metabolic rate remained constant over the range of swimming speeds tested. The cost of tran...

Variations in residues of persistent organic pollutants in a platypus (Ornythorhynchus anatinus) at consecutive samplings.