The bill skin of the platypus and echidna detects tactile stimulation via the push-rod, thought to be a type of mechanoreceptor.

“The other prominent receptor in the bill skin of both the platypus and echidna is the ‘pushrod,’ which is thought to be a mechanoreceptor responding to tactile stimulation.” (Fowler and Miller 2003:279)

Last Updated August 18, 2016