These crural glands produce a sticky venom made up of complex chemicals. When a platypus feels threatened, it will stab its ...

The platypus has a range of features that make it quite unlike any other animal. With a large bill, a paddle-like tail, webbed feet and a furry body, this funny-looking animal produces venom that ...

So, while co-opting these genes seems to be a common strategy for evolving venoms, the details of the gene duplications reveal that platypus venom and snake venom are independently derived features.

Despite their harmless appearance, these tiny creatures possess deadly venom, making them formidable predators in various environments. Beware!

Watch the Museum's venom evolution expert, Dr Ronald Jenner, explore the toxic tactics of the platypus. Despite its odd look, the platypus is perfectly adapted to its environment. It has a furry, ...