Is the platypus oviparous or viviparous (details)

The platypus is an oviparous mammal and one of the mammals that holds eggs and produces milk. Here’s a closer look at whether the platypus is oviparous or viviparous:

Oviparous characteristics:

Reproduction method:

The platypus is an oviparous animal, and the female platypus lays eggs rather than giving birth directly to young.

Egg laying process:

Female platypuses excavate nests underground and lay their eggs, usually 1 to 3 eggs at a time. The number of eggs is relatively small, which is a unique method of reproduction.

Egg protection:

The female uses the folds of skin on her abdomen to wrap the eggs inside her body, providing protection and warmth for the eggs.

incubation:

Platypus eggs hatch inside the female's body, and the incubation period lasts from about 10 days to 2 weeks. After hatching, the young are cared for by the female until they emerge from the nest.

Breastfeeding characteristics:

Breastfeeding habits:

Although platypuses are oviparous, they are still mammals, with the female feeding her young through the folds of skin on her abdomen.

Breastfeeding methods:

The platypus breastfeeds its young through hairy milk, which is secreted through the skin, rather than using nipples.

By combining oviparous and lactating traits, the platypus exhibits a unique reproductive strategy that merges two different modes of reproduction. This unique reproductive method has enabled the platypus to adapt to Australia's unique ecological environment during its evolution and demonstrated the diversity and adaptability of mammals.

animal tags： platypus