Carpet Python (Het Albino Granite 25% Axanthic)

Morelia spilota
Common Names: Carpet Python, Albino Granite Carpet Python (Het), Axanthic Possible Carrier

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Species Overview

• Size: Adults generally reach 6–9 feet (1.8–2.7 m), depending on subspecies influence, with females usually the larger sex.

• Appearance:

  • As a het. animal, this python does not visually display Albino or Granite traits.

  • Base appearance is typically that of a normal carpet python, showing earthy tones of brown, gold, and black banding.

  • The genetics, however, make it an important breeding animal rather than a visually distinct morph.

• Distribution: Carpet Pythons are widespread across Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands.

• Habitat: Found in woodlands, forests, savannahs, and rocky escarpments, often using both arboreal and terrestrial spaces.

• Behaviour: Semi-arboreal and opportunistic constrictors, preying on mammals, birds, and reptiles.

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Captive Care

• Enclosure: Adults require enclosures at least 4–6 ft long, with climbing branches and ledges for enrichment. Secure hides should be placed at both warm and cool ends.

• Temperature & Humidity:

  • Basking spot: 88–90°F (31–32°C).

  • Ambient gradient: 75–80°F (24–27°C).

  • Humidity: 50–70%, with increases during shedding.

• Diet: Juveniles thrive on hopper mice every 5–7 days. Adults should be fed medium to large rats every 10–14 days.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Captive-bred carpets are generally hardy and consistent feeders, though juveniles may be defensive. With regular care, most mature into steady captives.

• Special Considerations: They thrive in semi-arboreal, naturalistic setups with perches and climbing structures.

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Genetics Note

• Albino (Recessive – Heterozygous): Carries one copy of the Albino gene but does not visually display it. Offspring from the right pairing can produce visual Albinos.

• Granite (Recessive – Heterozygous): Carries one copy of Granite, which creates a fragmented, speckled “granite-like” pattern when expressed visually.

• Axanthic (Recessive – 25% Poss Het): Listed at 25% possible heterozygous, meaning this animal may carry the Axanthic gene but cannot be guaranteed without test breeding.

• Breeding Potential: This snake is primarily valuable for its genetic contribution. Breeding to other hets or visuals could yield Albino Granite offspring, and if Axanthic proves out, it could also be part of Caramel Axanthic or Snow-type projects.

The Carpet Python (Het Albino Granite 25% Axanthic) is not visually distinct from a normal carpet, but its genetic potential makes it highly valuable for breeders looking to create multi-gene combinations such as Albino Granite Axanthics.