The Ghost Ball Python is a popular morph known for its soft, muted colours and smooth, almost ethereal appearance. This unique look, caused by the hypo gene, has made the Ghost morph highly sought after among snake enthusiasts. Its calm nature and manageable size make it a favourite choice for beginners and experienced reptile keepers. In this article, you learn everything about this ball python morph from History to Characteristics and Breeding to Care tips.
Ghost Ball Python History & Origin
The Ghost Ball Python morph was first discovered in the late 1990s. The hypo gene is responsible for the Ghost morph. It reduces the overall pigmentation in the snake’s scales, resulting in a pale, almost ghostly appearance.
Over time, breeders have carefully developed the Hypo Ball Python, creating many different Ghost combinations that are highly prized in the reptile world. The Ghost gene is very important in the ball python community, providing endless opportunities for new and exciting morphs.
Taxonomy
The Ghost Ball Python is a special kind of ball python, scientifically called Python regius. What makes this snake stand out is its “hypo” gene, which gives it a unique look compared to other ball python morphs. Some people also call it the Hypo Ball Python Morph because of this distinct gene.
The cool thing about the Ghost morph is that it comes from a recessive gene, so both parents need to carry the hypo gene to have Baby Ghost Ball Pythons.
Ghost Ball Python Characteristics
Ghost Ball Python Appearance
The Hypo Ball Python is known for its unique and attractive appearance. It has soft, muted colour patterns that make it different from other Royal Python Morphs.
They have a “ghostly” or pale look due to the hypo gene, which reduces the black pigment in its scales. They are also known for their smooth and sleek scales, making them visually appealing.
Ghost Ball Python Eyes are another unique feature that adds to its charm. They typically have a lighter, almost translucent look, often appearing in shades of silver, grey, or light brown.
Ghost Ball Python Size & Weight
They are a medium-sized snake, making it manageable for most reptile enthusiasts. They typically grow to about 3 to 5 feet in length when fully grown. Their weight is between 2 to 4 pounds, with males being on the smaller end of the range and females typically being larger.
Temperature & Behavior
Hypo Pythons thrive best in temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). During the day, they should be kept in the mid-80s, and at night, it can drop to around 75°F.
Using a heat source like a heat mat or ceramic heater can help maintain the right temperature. They have a calm and docile nature. They are generally friendly and easy to handle, making them great pets.
Lifespan
Ghost Ball Python lifetime is typically between 20 to 30 years in captivity. With proper care, including a suitable habitat, correct temperature, and a balanced diet, they can live longer.
Read Also, How Long Do Ball Pythons Live?
Ghost Ball Python Cost
Their cost can vary widely depending on factors such as its age, quality, and whether it has additional morphs. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 to $500.
Prices can be higher for rare colour variations or unique patterns. Before purchasing, make ensure the snake is healthy.
Ghost Ball Python Breeding & Reproduction
Breeding Ghost Ball Pythons can be a rewarding process, but it requires careful planning. To start the breeding process, lower the temperatures by a few degrees.
Introduce the male to the female’s enclosure, and if they’re ready to breed, they’ll usually begin mating within a few days. After successful copulation, the female will go through a pre-lay shed about 30 days later and lay her eggs 4 to 6 weeks after shedding.
Incubation Period and Hatchling Care
Once the eggs are laid, set the temperature between 88°F and 90°F (31°C to 32°C). Their incubation period is typically around 55 to 60 days.
Once the eggs hatch, the baby snakes should be kept in a warm and humid place. They should be offered their first meal after they shed their skin for the first time, which usually happens about a week after they hatch.
Popular Ghost Ball Python Combinations
Pastel Ghost: This morph combines the Pastel and Ghost genes, resulting in a snake with bright, soft colours and a smooth, creamy appearance.
Super Ghost: Created by breeding two Ghost Ball Pythons together, the Super Ghost is even paler.
Lesser Ghost: This combination of the Lesser and Ghost genes produces a snake with a lighter, more subdued colour palette and a glossy sheen.
Desert Ghost: The Desert and Ghost gene combination in Ball Pythons creates a vibrant, high-contrast morph with a soft, muted pattern.
Mojave Ghost: Mixing the Mojave and Ghost genes creates a snake with unique, swirling patterns and a soft, muted colour that stands out.
Butter Ghost: This morph combines the Butter and Ghost genes, resulting in a snake with a buttery, pale yellow colour and a smooth, misty appearance.
Ghost Ball Python Care Sheet
Housing requirements
A 20-gallon tank is required for juvenile hypo ball python, while adults need at least a 40-gallon enclosure. Provide a secure lid to prevent escapes and include hiding spots, such as caves or hide boxes.
Use substrates like aspen bedding or cypress mulch for easy cleaning and to maintain humidity. Lighting is not essential, but a regular day-night cycle helps with their natural rhythm.
Temperature & Humidity
Maintain a temperature gradient with a warm side at 88-92°F and a cool side at 75-80°F. Use a heat lamp or under-tank heater to achieve the right temperature.
And maintain humidity levels between 50-60%; slightly higher during shedding. You can maintain this level by using a substrate that holds moisture well, such as coconut husk or cypress mulch.
Ghost Ball Python Diet
Hypo Ball Pythons are typically fed frozen-thawed rodents like mice or rats. Hatchlings should be fed once every 5 to 7 days, while adults can be fed once every 7 to 10 days. Always ensure the prey is fully thawed and warm before offering it to your pet snake.
Handling and Temperament
Hypo Pythons are known for their calm and docile nature, making them easy to handle. It’s important to support their body fully when holding them.
Avoid handling them right after feeding. Regular, gentle handling will help your snake become more comfortable with you.
Health and Common Issues
Regularly check your Hypo Ball Python morph for signs of illness, such as unusual shedding, loss of appetite, or respiratory issues like wheezing or mouth gaping. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult a reptile veterinarian. Keeping the enclosure clean and maintaining proper temperatures and humidity will help prevent most health issues.
Conclusion
Ghost Ball Pythons, with their soft, ghostly look and gentle nature, are the most attractive morph for snake lovers. Their unique appearance and ability to create stunning morph combinations make them exciting for both pet owners and breeders.
Easy to care for and fascinating to breed, Hypo Pythons are perfect for beginners and experienced keepers alike.
