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A leucistic platypus observed on the New England Tablelands of New South Wales.

Authors :
Streeting, Louise M.
Daugherty, Richard
Burrows, Sarah
Bower, Deborah S.
Watson, Sandy
Daugherty, Neve
Dillon, Martin L.
Goldingay, Ross
Source :
Australian Mammalogy; 2024, Vol. 46 Issue 1, p1-7, 7p, 3 Charts
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Genetic mutations resulting in abnormal colouration occur across all vertebrate groups but are considered rare, especially in mammals. Hypo-pigmentary conditions can be separated into albinism, leucism and piebaldism. The impact of colour variation on an animal's risk of predation and its ability to blend with its surroundings is widely recognised. We report our observations of a white platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in a tributary of the Gwydir River in the upper reaches of the Murray Darling Basin, New South Wales, Australia. We describe our observations in the context of historical platypus records since 1835. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
03100049
Volume :
46
Issue :
1
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Australian Mammalogy
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
174813715
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1071/AM23027