Male platypuses have venomous spurs on hind limbs. During breeding season, venom can cause excruciating pain to rivals. It is used in male-male competition rather than hunting. Venom delivery can incapacitate smaller animals if necessary. The chemical composition of the venom is unique among mammals. Human envenomation is painful but rarely fatal. The presence of venom is an evolutionary rarity in mammals, highlighting unique adaptations.
This venom protects territory and reproductive success.
It illustrates extraordinary evolutionary divergence in mammals.
Male platypuses produce venom from hind limb spurs during mating season.
Australian Museum (australian.museum)