The Radiant Platypus

Interesting observations on new sensory capabilities in the Monotremes and Marsupials of Australia (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2020/dec/19/tasmanian-devils-glow-in-the-dark-australian-animals-glowing-platypus-wombat-echidna-bandicoot-scientists-investigate-australia-marsupials-light). Dr Kenny Travouillon has shown that many native Australian mammals (including Bilbies, Bandicoots, Tasmanian devils and Echnidas) glow in response to being illuminated with an Ultra-Violet (UV) torch. The response is even seen in stuffed specimens of the Duck-billed platypus (they glow green or cyan, depending on the wavelength of the used UV torch). In this last case, the fluorescence is not down to chemicals used in the treatment of the specimen, as roadkill animals glow brightly. The phenomenon may be linked to an earlier finding by Prof Lyn Beazley and colleagues. She found that some Australian mammals (Honey possums and Fat-tailed dunnarts) have cells in their eyes that allow them to see UV light. The actual wavelengths detected may be linked to the animal's diet. Kangaroos showed only a poor response to being illuminated by a UV torch. This could be because they are strictly vegetarian, day-time browsers. It is suggested that many animals can see UV light but this ability has been lost in modern, placental mammals (Eutherians).