Corn Snake (Tessera Amel Stripe)

Corn Snake (Tessera Amel Stripe)

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, agile build and smooth, glossy scales.

Appearance: The Tessera Amel Stripe Corn Snake is an exceptionally clean and balanced combination of three powerful genetic traits—Tessera, Amel, and Stripe. The Tessera pattern forms a continuous, sharply defined dorsal stripe running from head to tail, while the Stripe gene enhances this linear structure and minimizes traditional saddle markings. The Amel (amelanistic) gene removes black pigmentation entirely, revealing intense orange, red, and white tones. Together, these traits create a perfectly symmetrical, high-contrast snake with a glowing, polished appearance that remains consistent into adulthood.

Distribution: A selectively bred form of the Corn Snake (P. guttatus), produced by combining Tessera (dominant), Amel (recessive), and Stripe (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 and inquisitive, showing peak activity during dawn and dusk. They are reliable feeders and adapt well to consistent care routines, making them ideal for both display and breeding.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A 40-gallon terrarium (36” × 18” × 18”) or larger is recommended for adults. Use soft, moisture-retentive substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or bioactive blends. Provide multiple hides, climbing décor, and cork bark to encourage natural behaviour and security.

Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 75–82°F (24–28°C) with a basking area around 86–88°F (30–31°C). Allow nighttime temperatures to drop to 70°F (21°C). Keep humidity between 45–60%, with a humid hide available during shedding.

Diet: Feed frozen-thawed rodents approximately 1.25× the snake’s mid-body width. Juveniles should eat every 7–10 days, while adults can be fed every 10–14 days.

Behaviour in Captivity: Corn Snakes are calm, alert, and active at twilight hours. They thrive with consistent care and are among the most reliable snakes to maintain in captivity.

Special Considerations: This morph is highly valued for its flawless linear pattern and striking colour clarity. When paired with complementary traits such as Hypo, Caramel, or Sunkissed, it can produce visually remarkable offspring like Sunglow Tessera Stripes or Butter Tessera Stripes. The Tessera Amel Stripe is a cornerstone morph for anyone developing striped or high-contrast breeding lines.

Genetics Note

Tessera (Dominant): Produces a crisp, continuous dorsal stripe with clean, symmetrical side patterning.
Amel (Recessive): Removes black pigmentation, revealing bright orange, red, and cream tones.
Stripe (Recessive): Reinforces linear dorsal markings, eliminating most saddles for a smooth, continuous appearance.

Genetic Combination Summary

The Tessera Amel Stripe Corn Snake expresses three visible traits:

• Tessera (Dominant): Creates structured, symmetrical dorsal and lateral striping.

• Amel (Recessive): Removes all dark pigment, emphasizing reds, oranges, and whites.

• Stripe (Recessive): Simplifies the dorsal pattern into a smooth, continuous stripe.

Together, these traits produce one of the cleanest and most striking appearances in the species. The Tessera Amel Stripe Corn Snake exemplifies pattern precision and vivid contrast, making it an outstanding addition to any collection or breeding program focused on linear and high-colour morphs.