The platypus is an Australian mammal that is not
easily classified. It is one of only two mammals (the
other being the echidna) that bears young by laying
eggs. In some respects, the platypus resembles a
duck; both have webbed feet and bills. The platypus
has a tail like a beaver’s and a furry body similar to
an otter’s. Its unusual hybrid of body parts makes it
well-suited for its largely aquatic life. The platypus
uses its webbed feet to paddle through water, and its
tail serves as a kind of rudder for steering. While
underwater, the platypus uses its bill to scoop up bits
of food, such as insects and shellfish, from the
water’s bottom. The platypus also scoops up bits of
gravel, which grind up the food, as the platypus is
toothless. The platypus stores the food and gravel in
its cheeks until it reaches the water’s surface. Once
the platypus surfaces, it consumes its meal.
Which best summarizes this passage?
(1 point)
Responses
Platypusses are aquatic mammals. They eat insects and
shellfish.
Platypusses are aquatic mammals. They eat insects and shellfish.
The platypus is an Australian mammal that is not easily
classified. It is one of only two mammals that bears young
by laying eggs. In some respects, the platypus resembles a
duck; both have webbed feet and bills. The platypus has a
tail like a beaver’s and a furry body similar to an otter’s. Its
unusual hybrid of body parts makes it well-suited for its
largely aquatic life.
The platypus is an Australian mammal that is not easily classified. It is one of only two mammals that bears young by laying eggs. In some respects, the platypus resembles a duck; both have webbed feet and bills. The platypus has a tail like a beaver’s and a furry body similar to an otter’s. Its unusual hybrid of body parts makes it well-suited for its largely aquatic life.
Platypusses are unusual creatures. They lay eggs and
have webbed feet and a bill, even though they are
mammals. They use their bill to scoop up food and ston
1 answer
The best summary of the passage is:
"Platypuses are unusual creatures. They lay eggs and have webbed feet and a bill, even though they are mammals. They use their bill to scoop up food and stones."
This option captures the key characteristics of the platypus, including its egg-laying reproduction, its unique physical traits, and its feeding behavior.
