The Short-beaked Echidna ( Tachyglossus aculeatus ) is 1 of 4 living types of echidna . It is also known as the Spiny Anteater because it eats ants and termites . The Short-beaked Echidna ( Tachyglossus aculeatus ) , also known as the Spiny Anteater because of its diet of ants and termites , is one of four living species of echidna and the only member of the genus Tachyglossus .