B.C.I (Hypo Aztec Het VPI)

B.C.I (Hypo Aztec Het VPI)

Scientific Name: Boa constrictor imperator
Common Name: B.C.I, Hypo Aztec Het VPI

Species Overview

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

Appearance: This morph carries the Hypomelanistic and Aztec traits, resulting in lighter, muted tones with high-contrast saddles and clean, geometric patterning. The Het VPI gene is carried but not visually expressed. The combination produces a visually striking boa with clear, bold markings.

Distribution: Native to Central and South America.

Habitat: Occupies tropical lowlands, forest edges, and semi-arid regions, often near rivers or scrub forests.

Behaviour: Primarily nocturnal ambush predators, feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Excellent swimmers and climbers, though adults are mostly terrestrial.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A naturalistic setup is strongly recommended. Adults should have at least a 6′ × 2′ × 2′ (183 × 61 × 61 cm) enclosure with sturdy branches, hides, cork bark, and plant cover. Bioactive environments with soil substrate, leaf litter, and live plants help maintain humidity and provide enrichment.

Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a gradient of 80–85°F (27–29°C), with a basking spot of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime can drop to 75–78°F (24–26°C). Humidity should remain between 55–70%, with access to a water dish large enough for soaking.

Lighting: Standard ambient lighting is sufficient. Low-level UVB is optional but can benefit live plants in naturalistic setups.

Diet: Juveniles feed every 7–10 days on appropriately sized rodents; adults feed every 14–21 days on larger prey items.

Behaviour in Captivity: Hardy and generally tolerant of handling. With consistent, calm husbandry, most individuals become manageable pets.

Special Considerations: Due to their potential adult size of 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 m), planning for future housing is essential. Handling large adults can be challenging; having a second person assist is recommended for safety and stress reduction.

Taxonomy Note

Boa constrictor imperator is a member of the family Boidae, a group of non-venomous constricting snakes native to the Americas. Formerly classified as a subspecies of Boa constrictor, B. imperator is now widely recognised as a distinct species based on genetic, morphological, and geographic evidence, with a natural range spanning much of Central America and extending into parts of northern South America. In captivity, this species is valued for its adaptability, generally steady temperament, and extensive diversity of selectively bred colour and pattern traits, all of which retain consistent core behaviours and care requirements across standard B.C.I forms.

Genetics Note

Hypomelanistic (Recessive): The Hypo gene reduces black pigmentation, producing cleaner, lighter colours and higher contrast between pattern and background when expressed in two copies. Single-copy carriers are visually normal but can pass the gene to offspring.

Aztec (Incomplete Dominant): The Aztec gene modifies pattern and colouration, producing irregular, high-contrast dorsal saddles with additional grey, yellow, red, and pink pigments. One copy produces moderate effects, while two copies intensify the pattern. Homozygous (Super Aztec) snakes may experience wobble or infertility.

Het VPI (Recessive Carrier): This snake carries one copy of the VPI gene, which modifies pattern and contrast when expressed in two copies. Single-copy carriers are visually normal but can pass the gene to offspring.