![]() ![]() ![]() Platypus venom probably won’t kill you, but it will cause swelling at the wound site and extreme pain that could last for weeks. What happens if you get stung by a platypus? ![]() The scientists previously showed that the venom triggers certain chemical changes in cultured human nerve cells that can lead to the sensation of pain. Masaki Kita, Daisuke Uemura, and colleagues note that spurs in the hind limb of the male platypus can deliver the venom, a cocktail of substances that cause excruciating pain. While the platypus may use this characteristic for offensive mating purposes, they may have also adapted it for defensive techniques. Since production rises during the breeding season, it is theorised that the venom is used as an offensive weapon to assert dominance and to control territory during this period. These cuties found here have venom that can be lethal, but there are no recorded cases of them killing humans. The duck-billed platypus is another venom-producing mammal, but doesn’t get much attention because you probably won’t ever see one. How many people have died from a platypus sting? The world-first discovery of a key metabolic hormone found in the venom and gut of Australia’s iconic platypus will now be investigated for its potential to treat type 2 diabetes, in new research led by the University of Adelaide. They have sharp stingers on the heels of their rear feet and can use them to deliver a strong toxic blow to any foe. The animal is best described as a hodgepodge of more familiar species: the duck (bill and webbed feet), beaver (tail), and otter (body and fur). ![]()
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