PLATYPUS

Platypus, a mammal that defies scientific phenomenons, is the key to understanding evolution and the effects of climate change. Platypus builds burrows near freshwater river creeks and inhabits places ranging from tropical rainforests to cold Australian Alps. Various characteristics differ platypuses from other mammals, including its ability to lay eggs, have ten sex chromosomes, and navigate the water by detecting electromagnetic waves. When climate change worsens over thousands of years, platypuses will likely migrate to new habitats via land-based or sea-based locomotion. Therefore, they are likely to split into two groups and assimulate by developing thicker hind legs or layered webbed feet to aid faster movement. They might develop a more alert sensory system to help them navigate through polluted waters, and evolve a strengthened venom gland to help scare off predators and attack preys. All in all, platypus is a fascinating mammal for researching the effects of climate change.