# @science on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DVkLQo8jjgL
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/58856476-science-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/7da6e204c7.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-03-07T01:45:14.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Science 🧬 (@science) — https://gondola.cc/science

## Caption

The platypus is a fascinating biological rarity, being one of the few living mammals capable of producing venom. This toxic secretion is synthesized in the crural glands, kidney-shaped organs located in the upper thighs of males, and is delivered through sharp, movable spurs on their hind limbs. Unlike snake venom, which is primarily used to disable or kill prey, platypus venom is largely defensive and linked to territorial dominance, with its production peaking during the breeding season. ⁠
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The venom itself is a complex cocktail containing at least nineteen peptides, including defensin-like proteins that showcase a remarkable example of convergent evolution. Interestingly, this chemical mix features a D-amino acid, making it the only known mammalian system to possess this specific biological trait.⁠
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While the venom is powerful enough to paralyze smaller animals, it is not lethal to humans, though it is infamous for causing excruciating and long-lasting pain. Victims experience rapid swelling around the puncture wound that gradually spreads, developing into a severe hyperalgesia that does not respond to standard pain relievers like morphine. ⁠
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This intense pain can persist for weeks or even months, sometimes causing significant impairment to the affected limb. A notable case involved an Australian Army veteran who described a platypus sting as far more agonizing than being hit by shrapnel, enduring stiffness and discomfort well after the initial encounter.⁠
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#platypus #mammal #venomous #venom #biology #science

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## Tags

platypus, science, mammal, biology, venomous, venom

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