Boa Constrictor Imperator (BCI)

Boa constrictor imperator
Morph: Ghost

Species Overview

• Size: BCI typically reach 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 m) in length, with females generally larger than males. Adults can weigh 15–30 pounds, depending on genetics and husbandry.

• Appearance: The Ghost morph is the result of combining the Anerythristic and Hypomelanistic traits. Ghost boas have soft silvery-grey colouration with reduced reds and blacks, often giving them a washed-out or “smoky” appearance. Patterns tend to be more muted compared to standard BCIs, and overall contrast is softer.

• Distribution: The natural Boa constrictor imperator occurs throughout Central and South America, ranging from Mexico through Colombia.

• Habitat: In the wild, BCIs inhabit tropical forests, savannahs, and riverine environments, often in semi-arid to humid regions.

• Behaviour: Like all BCIs, Ghost boas are nocturnal ambush predators, feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. They are strong swimmers and climbers, but most adults live terrestrially.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: A naturalistic enclosure is recommended, with at least 6′ × 2′ × 2′ for adults. Provide climbing branches, cork bark, and multiple hides. Bioactive setups with soil substrate, live plants, and leaf litter are highly effective for maintaining humidity and enrichment.

• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a gradient of 80–85°F (27–29°C) with a basking area of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime drops to 75–78°F (24–26°C) are acceptable. Humidity should stay between 55–70%, with access to a large water bowl for soaking.

• Diet: Juveniles feed every 7–10 days on small rodents; adults every 14–21 days.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Hardy boas that usually settle well in captivity. Some Ghosts are noted for calmer temperaments, but individuals vary. Strong feeding responses are common.

• Special Considerations: While selective breeding has produced a wide variety of morphs, their core care requirements remain identical to standard Boa constrictor imperator.

Genetics Note

The Ghost morph involves:

• Hypomelanistic (co-dominant): Reduces black pigmentation, lightening overall appearance and enhancing contrast.

• Anerythristic (recessive): Removes red pigmentation, leaving silvers, greys, and blacks.

• Ghost (combo morph): The combination of Hypo + Anery produces a pale, smoky-grey boa with reduced contrast and softened patterning.

This makes Ghost boas highly valued in both display collections and breeding projects, as they can serve as a foundation for further morph combinations such as Ghost Snows and Ghost Sunglows.