1.
What country does the duck billed platypus come from?
Correct Answer
C. Australia
Explanation
The duck-billed platypus is native to Australia. This unique mammal is found in the eastern part of the country, particularly in rivers, streams, and lakes of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with a duck-like bill, webbed feet, and a beaver-like tail. The platypus is a fascinating creature that is endemic to Australia and is not found in any other country.
2.
What did 18th century British scientist, George Shaw, think when he saw a stuffed platypus for the first time?
Correct Answer
A. That it was a fake animal
Explanation
George Shaw, an 18th-century British scientist, believed that the stuffed platypus he saw for the first time was a fake animal. This could be because the platypus possesses unique characteristics that were not commonly known at the time. Its appearance, with a duck-like bill, beaver-like body, and webbed feet, may have seemed too bizarre or improbable to be a real creature. Shaw's initial impression of it being a fake animal reflects the surprise and disbelief he must have experienced upon encountering this unusual specimen.
3.
What does the name platypus mean?
Correct Answer
E. Flat footed
Explanation
The name "platypus" means "flat footed." This refers to the unique physical characteristic of the platypus, which has webbed feet that are flattened and adapted for swimming. The term "flat footed" accurately describes this feature of the platypus's anatomy.
4.
The platypus doesn't have
Correct Answer
D. Stomach
Explanation
The correct answer is "Stomach" because the platypus does have a mouth, legs, and eyes, but it has a unique digestive system. The platypus does not have a true stomach like most mammals. Instead, it has a simple digestive tract where food passes directly from the esophagus to the intestines. This adaptation allows the platypus to digest its food quickly, which is beneficial for its hunting and feeding habits in the water.
5.
Male platypuses have venom.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Male platypuses have venom glands on their hind legs, which produce a venom that is used during competition for mates. This venom is not lethal to humans, but it can cause severe pain and swelling. The venom delivery mechanism is unique, as the platypus does not have fangs or stingers. Instead, it has spurs on its hind legs that release the venom when it strikes its opponent. This adaptation is thought to have evolved as a way to establish dominance and ensure reproductive success for male platypuses.
6.
Platypus can fly as high as eagles.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because platypus cannot fly. They are semi-aquatic mammals with webbed feet and a bill, but they do not have wings and cannot fly like eagles or any other bird species. Platypus are known for their ability to swim and dive underwater, but they are not capable of flying.
7.
Platypus walks on its knuckles.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Platypus walks on its knuckles because their front limbs are positioned in a way that their palms face inward and their fingers are folded back, allowing them to walk on their knuckles. This adaptation helps them move efficiently on land and also supports their burrowing behavior. Additionally, walking on their knuckles helps protect their sensitive webbed feet from damage.
8.
Platypus is a/an
Correct Answer
A. Mammal
Explanation
The correct answer is Mammal because the platypus is a unique mammal that lays eggs, which is a characteristic of monotremes. It has fur, produces milk to feed its young, and has other mammalian features such as a four-chambered heart and a diaphragm. Despite having some reptilian and bird-like features, the platypus is classified as a mammal due to its ability to nurse its young with milk.
9.
Platypus' face looks similar to
Correct Answer
C. Ducks
Explanation
The correct answer is ducks because the face of a platypus bears a resemblance to that of a duck. Both have a similar bill shape and structure, which is flat and broad. Additionally, both animals have small eyes and a similar facial expression, giving them a similar appearance.
10.
Do Platypuses give direct birth or lay eggs?
Correct Answer
B. Lay eggs
Explanation
The female platypus deposits her eggs in an underground burrow, which she constructs close to the water's edge. After a 10-day incubation period, baby platypuses emerge and suckle for about four months before venturing into the water to independently search for food.