Platypus jaw

This video is part of module L1 Mammalian Evolution & Comparative Anatomy by Dr. Robert J. Asher, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge (www.robertjasher.com). The "tooth" evident in the scan of the modern platypus Ornithorhynchus is not made of enamel or dentin but keratin, a softer substance. Note also the very large mandibular canal, which conveys the third division of the trigeminal, or mandibular nerve. Together with the second division of trigeminal which innervates the upper bill, this provides sensory input to the brain from the animal's electrosensitive bill. It uses its bill to locate its small aquatic prey via their minute muscular impulses without having to rely on vision or sound. Credits: Ornithorhynchus anatinus UMZC A2.2.10 from the UMZC (University Museum of Zoology Cambridge) CT scan by Roger Benson and Keturah Smithson taken at the Cambridge Biotomography Centre. 3D render by Robert J. Asher with Drishti 2.6.4, Limaye 2012 (https://doi.org/10.1117/12.935640) and https://github.com/nci/drishti/ Video & audio editing with OBS Studio 27.0.1, https://obsproject.com/ OpenShot 2.6.1, https://www.openshot.org