⏰ when
When did monotremes split from other mammals?
Quick Answer
Monotremes likely separated from other mammal lineages about 160 to 190 million years ago.
The Full Story
Monotremes, the egg-laying mammals, are the most ancient living branch of mammals. Genetic evidence suggests they diverged from the lineage leading to marsupials and placental mammals around 160 to 190 million years ago. Their modern survivors are the platypus and echidnas. They preserve unusual traits, including egg-laying and a cloaca, which make them especially important for mammal evolution studies.
Key Facts
1.Monotremes diverged about 160 to 190 million years ago
2.Living monotremes include platypuses and echidnas
3.They are the only egg-laying mammals alive today
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The strangest branch of mammals is also the oldest"
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