That is actually incorrect. While we do not have a Ball python genome sequence as of yet, the Burmese python genome is underway. Regardless, in order to determine parthenogenesis we do not need a ball python genome. I can readily perform that test using microsatellite markers that cross amplify from other python species. Currently, I have genotyped a number of ball pythons using markers originally obtained from Morelia.

Additionally, in Pythonids, the only case of verified parthenogenesis has been in Burmese pythons. In that case the eggs were not allowed to incubate to full term, therefore no actual living parthenogenetic burmese python is known to exist. In that burm study, the 7 babies were identified as female. In Boidae all known parthenogens have been female (all documented by me). In Caenophidians (derived snake lineages including rattlesnakes, pitvipers, colubrids, watersnakes, etc) all parthenogens have been male. I have samples to process from Ball pythons but am waiting until I set up my new lab at the University of Tulsa in the Fall.

Warren
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Dr Warren Booth / Director USARK
North Carolina State University
Department of Entomology

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