Platypus  (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)

Although the platypus was hunted intensively for its fur until the early 20th century, its population has recovered well and is now thought to be fairly abundant (1) (6). However, owing to the species’ specialised habitat requirements, it is seen as being increasingly vulnerable to the effects of habitat change (3) (8). In particular, one of the major concerns is the impact of reduced stream and river flow, resulting from prolonged periods of drought and the industrial and domestic extraction of water. Paradoxically, excessive flooding in the past has also been responsible for increased mortality and a decline in the number of young being born. In parts of its range, accidental drowning in nets and traps set for fish and crustaceans is a further problem (1) (6).

There are also growing concerns about the potential impact of a fungal disease, Mucormycosis, currently restricted to Tasmania. Platypuses that become infected with the disease develop ulcers on their body that can lead to death, due to secondary infection and an inability to control body temperature. It is not yet known what impact the disease is having on the abundance and distribution of the Tasmanian platypus population (8) (9).

The platypus is legally protected in all the states in which it occurs and populations are found in several protected national parks and reserves. Furthermore, fishing regulations, including the use of nets with larger mesh sizes, have helped to reduce the number of accidental deaths. In the absence of a reliable data, it is vital that research is carried out to determine baseline platypus population levels and trends (1) (6). This is to be supported by further research into platypus biology and the effects of human activities on the species, which will be used to inform conservation strategies (6). In addition, given the current threat of the spread of Mucormycosis, research into the fungal disease is also considered a huge priority (1) (9).