Which animal is known to be a mammal that lays eggs?

Which animal is known to be a mammal that lays eggs?

• A. Koala
• B. Rabbit
• C. Platypus
• D. Tiger

Answer: (C)

The platypus is a unique mammal known for its egg-laying capability, distinguishing it from most other mammals that give live birth. Found in Australia, the platypus belongs to a small group of egg-laying mammals known as monotremes, which also includes echidnas. This characteristic of laying eggs instead of birthing live young sets the platypus apart, highlighting the diversity within the mammalian class. In contrast, the other options—koalas, rabbits, and tigers—are all mammals that give live birth. Koalas are marsupials with pouches for carrying their young, while rabbits and tigers are placental mammals. These distinctions illustrate the varied reproductive strategies among mammals, with the egg-laying method of the platypus being particularly notable in the context of mammalian evolution.

The platypus is a unique mammal known for its egg-laying capability, distinguishing it from most other mammals that give live birth. Found in Australia, the platypus belongs to a small group of egg-laying mammals known as monotremes, which also includes echidnas. This characteristic of laying eggs instead of birthing live young sets the platypus apart, highlighting the diversity within the mammalian class.

In contrast, the other options—koalas, rabbits, and tigers—are all mammals that give live birth. Koalas are marsupials with pouches for carrying their young, while rabbits and tigers are placental mammals. These distinctions illustrate the varied reproductive strategies among mammals, with the egg-laying method of the platypus being particularly notable in the context of mammalian evolution.