PLATYPUSES (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: Recent studies show that even platypuses aren’t safe from bushfires in Australia.

• Bushfires burn and kill the vegetation that stabilises the soil around rivers or streams. When rain follows fire, a lot of ash, soil and other debris can be washed into waterways.

Platypuses

• Scientific name: Ornithorhynchus anatinus.
• Distribution: They are found in Australia.
• Habitat: It is known for its reclusive nature and highly specific habitat requirements.
• It is found near small streams and cool moving rivers.
• It is a duck-billed, beaver-tailed, otter-footed, egg-laying mammal.
• It is a small species of semi-aquatic mammal indigenous to the eastern coast of Australia.
• They are solitary animals that despite occupying overlapping home ranges, only comes together during the breeding season.
• The researchers and other conservation groups have called for Australia to classify the species of Platypus as nationally threatened.
• IUCN Status: Near Threatened.