Retained Sperm for a Decade?

[Bogertophis]

I'm sorry for your loss & I very much agree with you. Without getting into all the specific details, I too have seen unusual* outcomes in snakes that were apparent partho offspring. (*odd health issues & early deaths) It seems to me that even though nature is trying hard to promote species survival using parthenogenesis, it doesn't actually work very well.

[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).

[bcr229]

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.