In answer to the whole Paradox thing.
There seems to be two main theories. One says Paradox markings are caused by a "short-circuiting" of the genes for lack of a better term. Basically to me this is what happens in this case:
We all know albinism is reduced melanin production. Hence the yellow and white snake. To me a paradox spot is caused when some of the color producing genes go haywire and forget their job. It seems to me you most often see patches of normal coloration in a morph, so I think my theory has a little merit. It is not believed to be genetic, although some claim to have selectively bred to produce more Paradoxes.
In the case of the Chimera, it is believed that two separate fertilized ova join during development and become a single animal that carries the genes for both. There is a "Paradox Spied" out there that I am almost positive will turn out to be a true Chimera. Half of it's head is normal, the other half spider. Right down to one normal eye and one spider eye.
This one I believe to be a simple paradox, even though it has the normal coloration over part of it's head, both eyes are ruby. That tells me it's an albino.
All that aside, it's a magnificent snake and I am so glad his patience paid off.
Gale
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