0 a small Australian mammal that is covered with sharp spines, has a long nose, and eats ants and termites
The platypus and echidna opsin sequences are 93% identical and 96% similar to each other.
We obtained the same result after sequencing the echidna genes.
Platypus and echidna are the only extant monotreme species and provide a unique insight into the common ancestor of all mammals.
Other unusual matter observed in devil scats includes collars and tags of devoured animals, intact echidna spines, pencil, plastic and jeans.
In autumn and winter the echidna shows periods of torpor or deep hibernation.
The echidna can also dive underwater, which can help it to survive sudden floods.
Unlike the short-beaked echidna, which eats ants and termites, the long-beaked species eats earthworms.
The long-beaked echidna has a short weaning period.
