paradoxus

n.

a shortened form of the formerscientific name of the Platypus, Paradoxusornithorrhynchus. Sometimes further abbreviated to Paradox. The word is from the Greek paradoxos,`Contrary to opinion, strange, incredible.' (`L. & S.')

1817. O'Hara, `The History of New South Wales,' p. 452:

«In the reaches or pools of the Campbell River, the verycurious animal called the paradox, or watermole, is seen ingreat numbers.»