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Ancient Platypus Had Teeth!
3 May
Summary
- Obdurodon insignis fossils show ancient platypuses had strong teeth.
- These extinct platypuses retained adult teeth unlike modern counterparts.
- Fossil shoulder bone suggests swimming ability similar to modern platypuses.
Fossils unearthed in South Australia offer new insights into Obdurodon insignis, an ancient platypus species that lived approximately 25 million years ago. Unlike modern platypuses, which are born with teeth that they lose, Obdurodon insignis had strong, well-developed molars and premolars. Researchers found these fossils, including parts of the shoulder structure, indicate a forelimb similar to that of today's platypuses, suggesting comparable swimming abilities.
The study, published in Australian Zoologist, describes new remains that add to the limited fossil record of this species. The presence of teeth, including large front teeth capable of crushing hard-shelled prey like yabbies, highlights a significant difference from contemporary platypuses. This finding helps scientists reconstruct the appearance and diet of these ancient mammals, painting a picture of a toothed platypus thriving in the waterways of ancient South Australia.
