BP Genetics question

Hi there,

I have been searching the Net for some time now, and can't seem to find info on the BP genes, and what they do to patterns and coloration. Where can I get a decent list please?

There is not a comprehensive list. There are issues that some genes have various levels of expression and can look very different. The situation becomes more complex as genes interact with each other and blur/obscure/alter patterning. Given the number of genes that currently exist there are millions of combinations that can interact with each other so creating a list is problematic beyond two or three gene combos.

If you are just starting to learn: I recommend that you look up YouTube videos on particular morphs that you find of interest--people will often show you examples of what to look for on more common morphs. As you build your knowledgebase you can start examining photos on the World of Ball Pythons website or MorphMarket (do take Morphmarket with a few grains of salt as some of the snakes listed are mislabeled).

As it is now: With the number of four-five gene combos becoming more prevalent--even experienced breeders cannot identify morphs unless they know the parental background of the snakes. Further complicating things is pet stores selling multi-gene snakes as 'fancy' and there is no accompanying genetic info. Your casual snake keeper will have little chance at identifying a multi-gene combo unless it is obvious.

If you intend to breed ball pythons then buy from a reputable breeder who has already proven the genetics of the specimens you are interested in acquiring and then go from there. :)

If you're really serious about learning, 'Ultimate Ball Python Morph Maker Guide' by Kevin McCurley (of NERD) is an incredible book and worth the coin. We have a copy and refer to it pretty regularly for ideas and info. Aside from pictures, it has great articles explaining things like sex linking in Coral Glows, very detailed articles about genetics, and in many cases, the histories of the morphs themselves as well as description. It is over 700 pages and in full colour, which explains the price tag. Totally worth it though! The only small downside is that as the book ages, some newer morphs are missing, but it's still the best resource we have and hasn't been topped by anything we've found online.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Ultimate-Ba...-/163805755408

https://beanfarm.com/products/the-ul...nt=24905439561

Thanks for the great info! Thanks for taking the time to reply. I really appreciate it.