Based on the suggested changes to pyro/knoblochi taxonomy (A link was posted by Bob (pyromaniac) on the mountain king forum), you will need to know the locality of your snake or a DNA test to determine if it is L. pyromelana, or L. knoblochi, or a "hybrid". It is now being suggested that the pyros from southeastern AZ are actually L. knoblochi.

Interesting implications for those who own generic pyros if the suggested changes are accepted. You soon may no longer be able to look at a snake and identify what species it is. Genetic testing will be required. There is a completely different definition of "species" being used by biologists now that does not fit what hobbyist consider to be a species. The old biological species concept that most hobbyist still adhere to is pretty much dead.

Greg

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