Ball pythons, known for their stunning color patterns, are excellent models for studying genetics. Their wide range of traits, or morphs, arise from mutations or natural DNA variations. One notable morph is the Lavender Albino, prized for its unique coloration. Whether you’re a breeder or educator, our Ball Python Lavender Albino DNA Test provides an easy way to explore genetics.
Understanding the Lavender Albino Mutation
The Lavender Albino morph displays lavender-colored skin instead of the usual brown or black, due to reduced melanin. A missing segment in the OCA2 gene raises the pH in skin cells, inhibiting melanin production. In genetics, this type of mutation is called a deletion. The OCA2 gene is named after Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 2 (OCA2), a human condition that also results from mutations in OCA2, leading to pale skin, hair, and eyes—similar to the traits seen in Lavender Albino ball pythons.
What are the steps in the Lavender Albino DNA test?
Our assay was derived from the Ball Python Genetic Project, an undergraduate research program led by Dr. Hannah Seidel at Eastern Michigan University. The Lavender Albino DNA Test is a simple, PCR-based test that can be done in-house by breeders or used as an educational tool by teachers. The kit includes all necessary reagents and PCR tubes, and the test consists of three steps:
- Setup & Lysis: Prepare the reaction. Collect a piece of shed skin from your ball python and extract the DNA with a simple 10 min incubation in DNA Extraction Buffer (provided).
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): Amplify the DNA using primers that yield PCR products of different sizes depending on whether the mutation is present or not.
- Gel Electrophoresis: Separate the PCR products (DNA fragments) by size on a gel. Animals carrying two copies of the Lavender Albino allele (homozygotes) will have a PCR product of ~350 bp, normal animals (wild-type) will have a product of ~430 bp, and animals carrying one copy of the Lavender Albino allele (heterozygotes) will show both DNA fragments.
Process overview for our in-house testing. Get results in 3 hours, with less than 30 minutes hands-on work for processing 8 samples!
What do you need for in-house DNA testing of Ball Pythons?
How to start
For in-house DNA testing, you’ll need the kit, supplies for running gel electrophoresis, plastic consumables, and some basic equipment. Do not worry, we’ve done the work for you by bundling everything you need to start testing right away!
Our gelPCR™ Starter Bundle is perfect for processing 8 samples at the time.
Our gelPCR™ Premium Bundle is ideal for processing 16 samples or more at the time.
Good news: the equipment is a one-time purchase and both bundles are currently on sale!
How to keep testing
When it’s time for a refill, simply order the kit online along with the gel electrophoresis supplies and the plastic consumables (i.e. microtubes and filter tips). For convenience, we recommend the Learning Lab Companion Kit, which includes the microtubes and gel electrophoresis materials you’ll need to keep your testing running smoothly.
Genetic testing of morphs in education and reptile breeding
For educators, this test is a fantastic way to teach students about inheritance and gene function using a real-world example. It provides hands-on experience with DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis, making genetics tangible and exciting. We will address why the Lavender Albino DNA Test is an amazing tool for learning about genetics and mutations in a future blog post.
For breeders, the test offers an efficient method to determine the genotype of their ball pythons. This knowledge can guide breeding decisions, helping them produce the desired morphs and understand the genetics of their snakes.
Example of result using our Ball Python Lavender Albino DNA Test. Normal animals (WT) show one band at ~430 bp, animals carrying two copies of the Lavender Albino allele (Hom.) show one band at ~350 bp, while animals carrying one copy of the Lavender Albino allele (Het.) show both bands.
A user-friendly kit for determining the Lavender Albino genotype
Our Ball Python Lavender Albino DNA Test is a valuable tool for both education and breeding. By exploring the genetic basis of color morphs, you can deepen your understanding of genetics and optimize your crosses. Order your kit today and embark on a fascinating genetic journey with your ball pythons.
Related Resources
More on Dr. Seidel and the Ball Python Genetics project