![]() The Duck-Billed Platypus ( Ornithorhynchus anatinus) The Extant (Currently Alive) Species of Egg-laying Mammals Are: Despite their unusual characteristics, they play important roles in their ecosystems and are deserving of our attention and protection. In summary, monotremes are a unique group of egg-laying mammals found only in Australia and New Guinea. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring that these fascinating creatures continue to thrive in the wild. Unfortunately, many species of monotremes are under threat from habitat loss, pollution, and other human activities. The platypus, for example, is a top predator in its aquatic habitat, and echidnas play an important role in controlling insect populations. For example, other mammals have more bones in their jaws and skulls than them, and their breastbones are not connected to their shoulder blades.ĭespite their unusual characteristics, monotremes are an important part of their ecosystems. Monotremes are also unique in their skeletal structure, with a number of features that set them apart from other mammals. The mothers care for their young in a pouch or burrow, who hatch from their eggs in a very underdeveloped state. They lack nipples, however, and instead secrete milk from glands on their skin. Echidnas, on the other hand, have spiny backs and long snouts that they use to sniff out insects and other small prey.ĭespite their egg-laying reproductive strategy, monotremes still produce milk to feed their young. The platypus is perhaps the most famous of the three, with its duck-like bill and webbed feet. There are only three species of monotremes: the platypus and two species of echidnas. Found only in Australia and New Guinea, monotremes are a fascinating example of the diversity of life on our planet. Monotremes are a unique group of mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young. There is a group of mammals, called monotremes, that lays eggs instead of giving birth to live young. Mammals are hairy, produce milk, are warm-blooded, and give birth to live young …except for two animals. Mammals give birth to live young, right? That’s a huge component of what it means to be a mammal.
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