I have a Lampropeltis getula getula. It has single scales below the cloaca for about a dozen then split scales for a couple then single scales again for a few more then they split to the end of the tail. My question, is this at all common, or is there any other subspecies of L. getula that commonly has single scales? Also the belly scales of the entire body look somewhat split. There is most definately a defined line down the center of the belly. Anyone familar with this?
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Lampropeltis getula tail underside?
celticvamp
Feb 04, 2007 08:58 PM
Replies (3)
DMong
Feb 04, 2007 11:18 PM
As far as I know, all eight species of Lampropeltis(not just kingsnake) have divided subcaudals, and a single anal plate,....HOWEVER, I have personally seen many individuals that had both in random pattern as you mentioned......As far as the line down the venter(belly), this is fairly common to have a kind of "crease" down the center. This shouldn't be mistaken for "split" caudal scales.....If they were truly split, they would slightly overlap. Also there can be a somewhat visible line where the placenta was attached while growing in the egg around the "naval" area....hope this helps,.............Doug
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Better to be silent and thought a fool, than to open mouth and remove any doubt!
PHWyvern
Feb 05, 2007 08:49 AM
>>I have a Lampropeltis getula getula. It has single scales below the cloaca for about a dozen then split scales for a couple then single scales again for a few more then they split to the end of the tail. My question, is this at all common, or is there any other subspecies of L. getula that commonly has single scales? Also the belly scales of the entire body look somewhat split. There is most definately a defined line down the center of the belly. Anyone familar with this?
Dunno if it's common but the one I hatched last summer had a screwed up tail scales whereas her mother does not. lol. the scales flip flop between divided scales and undivided scales: 5 divided, 3 undivided, 2 divided, 4 undivided, 3 divided, ~10 undivided, 4 divided....
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PHWyvern
celticvamp
Feb 05, 2007 12:59 PM
Thank you much for the replies. I was concerned at first because this is an albino. Which I didn't mention at first because I know that there are alot of people that claim there is no true L. g. getula albino's. The little guy I have is a decendent of the albino eastern that was cought in Georgia and given to the Atlanta zoo. Then Bob Applegate obtained it from the Atlana zoo. This is what I've been told. Thanks again for the repiles.
