Main Characteristics of Monotremes

• Monotremes are the only mammals that don't give birth to live young. They lay eggs.
• There are only five species of monotremes: the platypus and four species of echidnas (one short-beaked echidna and three long-beaked echidnas).
• Monotremes are carnivores.
• Monotremes have a noticeably low body temperature. It is 86-89 degrees Fahrenheit (30-32 degrees Celsius).
• Monotremes live in Australia, Tasmania and New Guinea.

Monotreme Family Tree

Species List