Skip can I get in on the group hug too. I'll give you that the barkers info on ibd is old and out of date. In the vague hope to find more information accurate information out I wrote Dr. E Jacobsen a short email here is that email and his response that I got remarkably quickly.

Dr. Jacobson,

I have read a small amount of your work with IBD and have a simple question and I hope that you can take the time to answer if for me.

I am concerned with Royal Pythons (Python Regius) has there been evidence of them caring IBD for long periods of time with out showing symptoms? Is it correct that in this smaller species IBD typically attacks the Central nervous system quickly, and results in quick (months not years) appearance of associated symptoms, and death?

If there is research specifically relating to Python Regius, would you have a reference that you could provide to me?

Most humbly,
Alexander *edit name only*

Reply,


1. I am concerned with Royal Pythons (Python Regius) has there been evidence of them caring IBD for long periods of time with out showing symptoms?

I am not aware of any information about this,


2. Is it correct that in this smaller species IBD typically attacks the Central nervous system quickly, and results in quick (months not years) appearance of associated symptoms, and death?

Not that I am aware of.

3. If there is research specifically relating to Python Regius, would you have a reference that you could provide to me?

I do not know anyone who is focused on studying IBD in ball pythons.

EJacobson

So as far as Royals are concerned there is no information I replied back to Dr. Jacobson and thanked him for his reply and asked what is the best way to help fund his project. I'll post that once that answer arrives. It is very clear there is very little information on this subject and way more research is needed. I'd suggest that in the void to accept that pythonidae and Boiade be treated as the same or similar in response. As there is no other information at this time.

I read in passing that a lab in great briton has developed a fecal screen that they claim able to detect IBD in light of a possible dormancy which I understood to apply only to Boiade, I feel that testing is a priority. Has anyone heard this as well ? If I recall correctly they offered a international mail based system.