since many of the principles you described I just finished studying in AP Physics (Kirchhoff's law), and I will begin studying engineering in the fall (though not chemical).

Evolutionary adaptations have shown us that animals (reptiles in particular) that need to either conserve heat or need to absorb heat in a deficient environment tend to have more melanin, the darker pigments aiding their needs. However, I do believe this is based on observation and may or may not be proven.

One breeder in particular who has spoken about Albino females and their litters mentioned improved results with keeping the females at slightly higher temperatures. Using belly heat, raising the temperature about 2 degrees higher than normal, and reducing the heat gradient to prevent too cool of conditions resulted in litters with no problems.

On another note, as our hobby expands, and more questions arrise I believe more and more science will become involved. As I think it should, so that we can better understand what is at hand. In addition to my Engineering degree I will begin some research next year, that will hopefully answer some of the questions we have in regards to the varience of amelanism in boas, and the effects on the animal.

By the way, Steve, are you a chemical engineer? If so where did you go to school? I will be attending Cornell, myself, for Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

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