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Description
Corn Snake (Tessera Diffused)
Scientific Name: Pantherophis guttatus
Common Name: Corn Snake
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 m) in length, with a slender, muscular build and smooth, glossy scales.
Appearance: The Tessera Diffused Corn Snake is a bold yet refined morph that merges the crisp linearity of the Tessera gene with the smooth, pattern-blending effects of Diffused. The Diffused trait softens or completely removes the saddle edges and eliminates belly checkering, resulting in a solid field of colour that flows seamlessly along the body. When combined with Tessera, the result is a clean, structured dorsal stripe contrasted by evenly softened sides and a spotless underside. Colouration typically ranges from warm red and orange to copper tones, depending on lineage and selective breeding. The combination produces an exceptionally tidy, streamlined snake that embodies both pattern precision and visual depth.
Distribution: A selectively bred form of the Corn Snake (P. guttatus), developed through the combination of Tessera (dominant) and Diffused (recessive) traits.
Habitat: Wild Corn Snakes inhabit a range of habitats across the southeastern United States, including forests, fields, and agricultural areas. In captivity, this morph thrives in naturalistic terrariums with soft substrate, climbing branches, and secure hiding areas.
Behaviour: Corn Snakes are crepuscular, most active during dawn and dusk. They are hardy, dependable feeders and adapt easily to consistent husbandry routines, making them excellent for both breeding and display.
Captive Care
Enclosure: A 40-gallon terrarium (36” × 18” × 18”) or larger is ideal for adults. Use soft, moisture-retentive substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or a bioactive blend. Provide multiple hides, cork bark, and climbing décor to promote natural behaviour and security.
Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 75–82°F (24–28°C) with a basking area near 86–88°F (30–31°C). Allow nighttime drops to 70°F (21°C). Keep humidity between 45–60%, and provide a humid hide or damp moss during shedding.
Diet: Offer frozen-thawed rodents approximately 1.25× the width of the snake’s mid-body. Feed juveniles every 7–10 days and adults every 10–14 days.
Behaviour in Captivity: Corn Snakes are calm, inquisitive, and tolerant of gentle handling. They thrive with consistent care, stable conditions, and regular feeding.
Special Considerations: The Tessera Diffused Corn Snake is highly valued for its clean appearance and potential as a foundation for colour enhancement projects. When combined with other traits such as Amel, Caramel, or Sunkissed, it can produce morphs like Butter Diffused Tessera or Sunglow Tessera Diffused, both known for their smooth patterning and rich hues. Its minimal belly pattern and balanced dorsal stripe make it a favourite for breeders pursuing visually consistent lines.
Genetics Note
Tessera (Dominant): Produces a sharp, continuous dorsal stripe and symmetrical side markings.
Diffused (Recessive): Removes belly checkering and softens saddle patterns, resulting in even colour coverage.
Genetic Combination Summary
The Tessera Diffused Corn Snake expresses two visible traits:
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Tessera (Dominant): Creates a structured, linear dorsal stripe and balanced side markings.
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Diffused (Recessive): Smooths pattern edges and removes belly markings for a seamless, clean appearance.
Together, these genetics create a vibrant, uniform Corn Snake with sharp dorsal striping and flowing colour transitions. The Tessera Diffused Corn Snake is both visually refined and genetically versatile—an excellent choice for breeders developing smooth, high-colour morph lines.