Original: By contraction of various parts of the panniculus carnosus, the Short-beaked Echidna can change shape—the most characteristic shape change is achieved by rolling itself into a ball when threatened, protecting its belly and presenting a defensive array of sharp spines.
Simplified: By contraction of various parts of this muscle the Short-beaked Echidna can change shape—the most characteristic shape change is achieved by rolling itself into a ball when threatened, protecting its belly and presenting a defensive array of sharp spines.