SMRTR Science & EngineeringMar 18, 2026Nautilus

Platypus Anatomy Just Got Weirder

SMRTR summary

Belgian researchers discovered that platypus fur contains hollow, spherical melanosomes—pigment structures previously found only in birds and never before seen in mammals. Scientists believe these unique structures may have helped the platypus's aquatic ancestors stay insulated underwater, adding another bizarre feature to an already peculiar animal.

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