![platypus evolution ancestor platypus evolution ancestor](https://3c1703fe8d.site.internapcdn.net/newman/gfx/news/2008/p_genome987.jpg)
The echidnas are nine and we humans are only two.ĭespite all these bizarrities, the researchers were able to trace a relationship between the shape of the platypus chromosomes and humans, which may provide a missing link in human evolution. Genetic analyzes have shown that platypuses are the only animals in the world to have ten sex chromosomes. Now, we have the first genomic map of platypus and echidnas – another Australian mammal also lays eggs and is just as strange as the one already mentioned. The genome of several animals already has complete genetic maps, including humans. However, a January 6 study, available from Nature, showed how this evolutionary mosaic might have happened. Besides, platypuses still have some reptilian characteristics, such as claws and poisonous spurs, in addition to luminescent hair.Ģ008 research had already shown that these animals’ DNA contained parts of birds, mammals and reptiles.
#Platypus evolution ancestor skin#
As if it were not enough confusion, these animals still lay eggs and suck their offspring through the pores of their skin – since they have no breasts. However, platypuses also have a robust beak, similar to that of a duck. Officially they belong to mammals, animals with mammary glands, sweat glands and hair in at least one stage of life. Platypus : Genetics can explain why they are so strange as researchers have revealed details about the evolutionary mosaic, showing that the DNA of Platypuses has parts of birds, mammals and reptiles.