Retained Sperm for a Decade?
I have a 15 year old female whose last litter was laid in Feb, 2014. This morning she presented me with eggs and they look viable, so I had to fire up the incubator as I've been producing all boas the past few years. Fortunately it still works!
I'd heard of female retaining sperm for a year, but ten years?
Re: Retained Sperm for a Decade?
No she's a normal/classic.
Re: Retained Sperm for a Decade?
I'm sorry for your loss!
Were you able to notice anything unusual about the snake before/after it passed? Tumors, heavy breathing, erratic behavior, or unusual stools?
Since offspring from parthenogenesis are extremely close to each other on the genetic level, it is a safe assumption that if you have the remaining clutchmate, they will have the same issues(s).
Re: Retained Sperm for a Decade?
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Lord Sorril
I'm sorry for your loss!
Were you able to notice anything unusual about the snake before/after it passed? Tumors, heavy breathing, erratic behavior, or unusual stools?
Since offspring from parthenogenesis are extremely close to each other on the genetic level, it is a safe assumption that if you have the remaining clutchmate, they will have the same issues(s).
There was nothing unusual. I've had snakes pass from cancer and once it's advanced there are outward signs - anorexia, strong-smelling urine or changes in stools, lethargy, etc. Maybe a necropsy would show something but I don't have $400 to throw on that possibility.
I do still have the remaining clutchmate and will likely keep her for life, however short or long that is.