Some eDNA testing can detect the presence of a species from a single drop of water or a speck of dust. The Platypus signature and test, using eDNA, was developed by cesar Australia. The Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland’s (WPSQ) PlatypusWatch network has been working in collaboration with Councils in SEQ, including Ipswich City Council, to undertake environmental DNA (eDNA) testing. Therefore, identifying and monitoring populations has been a challenge and accurate information on population trends is limited. However, positive sightings are a rare occurrence. There are a few tell-tale signs of their presence, such as ripples, bubbles and the presence of burrows. The Platypus can be an elusive critter that is difficult to monitor due to their shyness and nocturnal habit.
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They are also vulnerable to predation from both natural predators, such as goannas and Wedge-tailed Eagles, and introduced predators such as foxes, cats and dogs. The main threatening processes impacting upon Platypus populations are urbanisation and agriculture, which result in habitat degradation, habitat fragmentation and decline in movement between populations. They are also vulnerable to local extinctions if waterways are not managed properly. Localised declines have been recorded across the country and the Platypus is now listed as ‘near threatened’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Platypus also require habitat connectivity to support breeding, dispersal and to ensure that they have access to adequate food sources in response to changing conditions such as flood and drought.
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Platypus prefer habitats with intact vegetated creekbanks with overhanging plants, earthen banks and streams with a depth between 1-5m.
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The Platypus is found in and around freshwater ecosystems, including permanent streams, rivers, lakes and even dams. It is one of two species of monotreme (egg-laying mammals) found in Australia, the other being the Short-beaked Echidna. The Platypus is a unique and fascinating creature. Woogaroo Creek (top) and the Bremer River (above) are two sites in Ipswich that have been surveyed for Platypus using eDNA testing.Photos by WPSQ.