Q. Which among the following is / are egg laying mammals?
  1. Platypus
  2. Echidna
  3. Otter
  4. Koala
Select the correct option from the codes given below:

Answer: Only 1 & 2
Notes: Among the options provided, the following are egg-laying mammals:
  1. Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) - The platypus is a unique and iconic Australian mammal known for its duck-bill-like snout, webbed feet, and ability to lay eggs. It is one of only five species of monotremes, which are mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young.
  2. Echidna (Tachyglossidae family) - Echidnas, also known as spiny anteaters, are another group of egg-laying mammals found in Australia and New Guinea. Like the platypus, they are monotremes and lay eggs.
The following options are not egg-laying mammals:
  1. Otter - Otters are placental mammals and give birth to live young.
  2. Koala - Koalas are also placental mammals and give birth to live young.

This question is part of UPSC Daily 20 MCQ Series Course on GKToday Android app.