Jeff,



In an earlier post I stated that I felt Captive Hatched animals had stronger blood than that of Captive Bred animals. I also stated that this was just MY opinion. You then came on and posted the following,



“And to say wild blood is stronger is not only assinine (correct spelling is asinine), it shows a complete lack of understanding of basic population genetics and genetic drift.”



Now as I understand it in the wild there is a basic law… survival of the fittest. To me this means that only the strongest and healthiest ball pythons are likely to survive, grow to adult size, and reproduce. These animals will pass on there genes and subsequently many of the characteristics that helped them survive and thrive on to their offspring. This simply means strong parents make strong babies.



Now in stark contrast you have captive bred animals, which are almost guaranteed to survive with proper care. Runts or weak animals are assist-fed and nursed until they are healthy, feeding, and ultimately BREEDING. In the Morph world many of the animals bred are siblings or closely related. This leads to some weak animals that would never have made it to breeding size in the wild ultimately breeding in captivity and passing on their inferior genetics.



Now based on the above stated (what I consider to be) facts I have come to the conclusion that Captive Hatched animals are LIKELY to have stronger blood than Captive Bred animals. This in turn will help me to produce stronger, better feeding, and more productive animals. As my response shows I actually put some thought in to the process of forming my opinion and ultimately making the statement that I did.



Now please enlighten me on how this was an "asinine" statement. By the way asinine is defined as utterly stupid in the dictionary. Also, please help me address my “lack of understanding” in basic population genetics and genetic drift by giving me and the rest of the community a brief tutorial. That is if you have the time.



Thanks,

Oz


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