LOL, sounds like you are trying to prove her wrong, moreover; reaching for a legitimate reason to justify your guilt of future breeding projects. Perhaps you should take time and reflect whether you feel it is right to breed these morphs. I would read what you can on genetics to aid in your decision. Just playing the devil's advocate so please do not interpret this as an attack. The thought has crossed my mind as well. I have yet to see a harzardous result of selective breeding from my observations, but it sounds to me your girlfriend's issue is morally related where the scientific proof which you seek may not hold ground. Take for instance the ensuing argument.



I disagree with the importation of wild caught animals to some extent. For instance, there are sooo many BP's in captivity with varying color and pattern morphs. Do we really need to continue taking them from the wild especially with many household breeders? How many morphs until the breeders and hobbyists are content? I battle with this thought, and came to the realization my question can not be answered unless I knew the impact this is having on natural populations. Something which must be researched from a non-biased party. For herpers, the advent of these morphs are ground-breaking. Let us face it - many people are profiting from these animals and many more hope to, myself included. It must be mentioned caring for these wonderous creatures has touched my soul even before the morph craze, and I am sure there are thousands of others who feel the same. In saying that I do not purchase WC specimens, but may change my mind if I knew the true impact on wild populations.



Lastly, you may take refuge from guilt by only breeding naturally occuring morphs, such as albinos. To my knowledge the creation of these morphs, as well as designer mutations, has not resulted in a catastrophic change or disturbance within the species other than pattern and color. This is how I justify the selective breeding of ball pythons. If the animals were all coming out deformed with ten eyes, or had some major behavioral change I may feel differently. Wants to run for office....



Anyways, I hope this helps sort things out in your mind. Good luck with your girlfriend. I will say it again, GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR GIRLFRIEND, HAHAHA!



Best Regards,

Todd G.

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