Corn Snake (Tessera Bloodred)

Corn Snake (Tessera Bloodred)

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 sturdy, streamlined body and smooth, glossy scales.

Appearance: The Tessera Bloodred Corn Snake is a striking and deeply pigmented morph that combines the vivid saturation of the Bloodred trait with the clean, linear structure of the Tessera pattern. The Bloodred gene, part of the Diffused complex, removes belly checkering and blends pattern edges to create a seamless, solid field of colour. When combined with Tessera, the result is a bold, intensely red Corn Snake with a fine, uninterrupted dorsal stripe and soft, diffused sides. The overall tone ranges from bright crimson to deep garnet, often darkening and evening out with age. The belly is typically spotless or faintly translucent, adding to the morph’s refined, uniform appearance.

Distribution: A selectively bred form of the Corn Snake (P. guttatus), developed through the combination of Tessera (dominant) and Bloodred/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, reliable feeders and adjust easily to consistent care routines, making them excellent for both display and breeding.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A 40-gallon terrarium (36” × 18” × 18”) or larger is suitable for adults. Use soft, moisture-retentive substrate such as soil, coconut fibre, or bioactive blends. Provide multiple hides, cork flats, and climbing décor to encourage exploration 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 offer a humid hide during shedding cycles.

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, curious, and active during twilight hours. They thrive with consistent care, stable conditions, and gentle handling.

Special Considerations: The Tessera Bloodred Corn Snake is an excellent example of clean, controlled colour and structure. When paired with additional traits such as Amel, Hypo, or Stripe, it can produce stunning combinations like Sunglow Tessera Bloodreds or Diffused Tessera Stripes. Its deep, even coloration and symmetrical patterning make it a cornerstone morph in red-line selective breeding.

Genetics Note

Tessera (Dominant): Produces a clean, continuous dorsal stripe and structured side markings.
Bloodred / Diffused (Recessive): Removes belly checkering and softens saddle edges for a uniform, solid-colour appearance.

Genetic Combination Summary

The Tessera Bloodred Corn Snake expresses two visible traits:

• Tessera (Dominant): Creates balanced, symmetrical striping and refined linear flow.

• Bloodred / Diffused (Recessive): Smooths pattern edges and removes belly markings for full-body colour consistency.

Together, these traits create a deeply saturated, visually uniform Corn Snake with precise striping and minimal pattern interruption. The Tessera Bloodred Corn Snake is both elegant and genetically valuable—an ideal choice for breeders and collectors developing pure red or high-contrast lineages.