In the lab mouse, there are spinal abnormalities and eye abnormalities that are known to be genetic. On the other hand, in a number of species (trout, chickens, others), there are a variety of abnormalities that are caused by environmental problems, such as vitamin deficiencies in the parents, too much or too little heat, etc.

As far as I know, there has been a lot of theorizing and very little testing as to the real cause of these abnormalities in snakes.

Paul Hollander

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