Platypus with Murcormycosis disease have been detected in the Meander River. This fungal disease, which only affects Tasmanian platypus, has been detected for the first time in nearly a decade.

The reason why is not known. Some scientists feel that platypus are now so specialised, and so far out on the evolutionary tree, that they are more vulnerable to environmental change.

Certainly they are dependent on aquatic habitats for their survival, and may be susceptible to a range of environmental changes arising from human activities.

The disease is usually fatal because of it results in infections that affect the ability to hunt for food and maintain its body temperature in our cold waters.

But some platypus can live for some time, and heal.

A platypus with a large ulcer on its back, just above the tail, has been sighted in the Meander River at Deloraine in August and mid-September by platypus monitors.

Observers report that this animal appears to be in good health and untroubled by the sore on its back, so it is hoped it can recover.

It has been seen twice near the weir, but monitors suspect it lives most of the time below the weir in the stretch of river along River Road.

They would like to know where it is living and how the platypus is faring.

Is the sore growing or shrinking? The ulcer is currently about the size of a 20 cent piece.

The vets would greatly appreciate the assistance of the public in monitoring this platypus.

If the platypus appears to be distressed or its welfare is compromised, please contact the local vet.

Any information about the platypus should be emailed to NRE wildlife services: wildlife.services@nre.tas.gov.au