Reticulated Python

Synonyms :

Boa reticulata Schneider, 1801
Boa rhombeata Schneider, 1801
Boa phrygia Shaw, 1802
Coluber javanicus Shaw, 1802
Python schneideri Merrem, 1820
Python reticulatus – Gray, 1842
Python reticulatus– Boulenger, 1893
Morelia reticulatus – Welch, 1988
Python reticulatus– Kluge, 1993[2]
Broghammerus reticulatus– Hoser, 2003/2004[3][4]
Malayopython reticulatus– R.G. Reynolds et al., 2014[5]

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The reticulated python (Python reticulatus)[1] is a species of python found in Southeast Asia. They are the world's longest snakes and longest reptiles and among the three heaviest snakes. Like all pythons, they are nonvenomous constrictors and normally not considered dangerous to humans. Although large specimens are powerful enough to kill an adult human, attacks are only occasionally reported.

An excellent swimmer, P. reticulatus has been reported far out at sea and has colonized many small islands within its range. The specific name, reticulatus, is Latin meaning "net-like", or reticulated, and is a reference to the complex color pattern.[6]

Reticulated python

Conservation status :

Not evaluated (IUCN 3.1)

Scientific classification:

Kingdom:Animalia

Phylum:Chordata

Subphylum:Vertebrata

Class:Reptilia

Order:Squamata

(unranked):Toxicofera

Suborder:Serpentes

Family:Pythonidae

Genus:Python

Species:P. reticulatus

Binomial name:

Python reticulatus
(Schneider, 1801)[1]

Description :

This species is the largest snake native to Asia. More than a thousand wild reticulated pythons in southern Sumatra were studied and estimated to have a length range of 1.5 to 6.5 m (4.9 to 21.3 ft) and a weight range of 1 to 75 kg (2.2 to 165.3 lb).[7] Reticulated pythons with lengths more than 6 m (19.7 ft) are rare, though according to the Guinness Book of World Records, it is the only extant snake to regularly exceed that length.[8] A reticulated python of the same length as a green anaconda may weigh only half as much as the bulkier anaconda.[8] One of the largest scientifically measured specimens, from Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, Indonesia, was measured under anesthesia at 6.95 m (22.8 ft) and weighed 59 kg (130 lb) after not having eaten for nearly 3 months.[9] Widely published data of specimens that were reported to be several feet longer have not been confirmed.

The specimen once widely accepted as the largest-ever "accurately" measured snake, that being Colossus, a specimen kept at the Highland Park Zoo (now the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, during the 1950s and early 1960s, with a peak reported length of 8.7 metres (28 ft 7 in) from a measurement in November 1956, was later shown to have been substantially shorter than previously reported. When Colossus died on April 14, 1963, its body was deposited in the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. At that time, its skeleton was measured and found to be 20 ft 10 in (6.35 m) in total length, and the length of its fresh hide was measured as 23 ft 11 in (7.29 m) – both measurements being significantly shorter than what had been previously estimated in 1956.[10] The hide tends to stretch from the skinning process, and thus be longer than the snake from which it came – e.g., by roughly 20–40% or more.[11] The previous reports had been constructed by combining partial measurements with estimations to compensate for "kinks", since it is virtually impossible to completely straighten an extremely large live python. Because of these issues, a 2012 journal article concluded that "Colossus was neither the longest snake nor the heaviest snake ever maintained in captivity." Too large to be preserved with formaldehydeand then stored in alcohol, the specimen was instead prepared as a disarticulated skeleton. The hide was sent to a laboratory to betanned, but it was either lost or destroyed, and now only the skull and selected vertebrae and ribs remain in the museum's collection.[10]There is considerable confusion in the literature over whether Colossus was male or female (females tend to be larger).[11][10]

Numerous reports have been made of larger snakes, but since none of these was measured by a scientist nor any of the specimens deposited at a museum, they must be regarded as unproven and possibly erroneous. In spite of what has been, for many years, a standing offer of a large financial reward (initially $1,000, later raised to $5,000, then $15,000 in 1978 and $50,000 in 1980) for a live, healthy snake over 30 ft (9.1 m) long by the New York Zoological Society (later renamed as the Wildlife Conservation Society), no attempt to claim this reward has ever been made.[11]

The color pattern is a complex geometric pattern that incorporates different colors. The back typically has a series of irregular diamond shapes flanked by smaller markings with light centers. In this species' wide geographic range, much variation of size, color, and markings commonly occurs.

In zoo exhibits, the color pattern may seem garish, but in a shadowy jungle environment amid fallen leaves and debris, it allows them to virtually disappear. Called disruptive coloration, it protects them from predators and helps them to catch their prey.[12]

The smooth dorsal scales are arranged in 69–79 rows at midbody. There are deep pits on four anterior upper labials, on two or three anterior lower labials, and on five or six posterior lower labials.[13]

P. reticulatus head

Geographic range

Reticulated pythons are found in South Asia from the Nicobar Islands, India, Bangladesh, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam,Malaysia, and Singapore, east through Indonesia and the Indo-Australian Archipelago (Sumatra, the Mentawai Islands, the Natuna Islands, Borneo, Sulawesi, Java, Lombok, Sumbawa, Sumba, Flores, Timor, Maluku, Tanimbar Islands) and the Philippines (Basilan,Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Luzon, Mindanao, Mindoro, Negros, Palawan, Panay, Polillo, Samar, Tawi-Tawi). The original description does not include a type locality. Restricted to "Java" by Brongersma (1972).[2]

Three subspecies have been proposed,[14] but are not recognized in the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS). The color and size can vary a great deal among the subspecies described. Geographical location is a good key to establishing the subspecies, as each one has a distinct geographical range.

Skull diagram

Habitat

The reticulated python lives in rain forests, woodlands, and nearby grasslands. It is also associated with rivers and is found in areas with nearby streams and lakes. An excellent swimmer, it has even been reported far out at sea and has consequently colonized many small islands within its range.[12] During the early years of the 20th century, it is said to have been common even in busy parts of Bangkok, sometimes eating domestic animals.[15]

Feeding

Their natural diet includes mammals and occasionally birds. Small specimens up to 3–4 m (9.8–13.1 ft) long eat mainly rodents such asrats, whereas larger individuals switch to prey such as Viverridae (e.g. civets and binturongs), and even primates and pigs. Near human habitation, they are known to snatch stray chickens, cats, and dogs on occasion. Among the largest, fully documented prey items to have been taken are a half-starved sun bear of 23 kilograms that was eaten by a 6.95-m (22.8-ft) specimen and took some ten weeks to digest, as

Normal reticulated python

The "reticulated" net-like patterning that gives the reticulated python its name

well as pigs of more than 60 kg (132 lb).[16] As a rule, these snakes seem able to swallow prey up to one-quarter their own length and up to their own weight.[17] As with all pythons, they are primarily ambush hunters, usually waiting until prey wanders within strike range before seizing it in their coils and killing by constriction. However, at least one case is reported of a foraging python entering a forest hut and taking a child.[18]

Danger to humans

Attacks on humans are rare, but this species has been responsible for several human fatalities, in both the wild and captivity. They are among the few snakes that have been suggested to prey on humans. Reports of human fatalities and unauthenticated sources of human consumption include:

Two incidents, apparently in early 20th-century Indonesia: On Salibabu, a 14-year-old boy was killed and supposedly eaten by a specimen 5.17 m (17.0 ft) in length. Another incident involved an adult woman reputedly eaten by a "large reticulated python", but few details are known.[19]
Franz Werner reported a case from Burma occurring either in the early 1910s or in 1927.[11] A jeweller named Maung Chit Chine, who went hunting with his friends, was apparently eaten by a 6 m (19.7 ft) specimen after he sought shelter from a rainstorm in or under a tree. Supposedly, he was swallowed feet-first, contrary to normal snake behavior, but perhaps the easiest way for a snake to actually swallow a human.[20]
In 1932, Frank Buck wrote about a teenage boy who was eaten by a pet 25 ft (7.6 m) reticulated python in the Philippines. According to Buck, the python escaped, and when it was found, a human child's shape was recognized inside the snake, and turned out to be the son of the snake's owner.[21]
Among a small group of Aeta negritos in the Philippines, six deaths by python were said to have been documented within a period of 40 years, plus one who died later of an infected bite.[18]
On September 4, 1995, Ee Heng Chuan, a 29-year-old rubber tapper from the southern Malaysian state of Johor, was reported to have been killed by a large reticulated python. The victim had apparently been caught unaware and was squeezed to death. The snake had coiled around the lifeless body with the victim's head gripped in its jaws when it was stumbled upon by the victim's brother. The python, reported as measuring 23 ft (7.0 m) long and weighing more than 300 lb, was killed soon after by the arriving police, who shot it four times.[11]
On October 23, 2008, a 25-year-old Virginia Beach, Virginia woman, Amanda Ruth Black, appeared to have been killed by a 13-foot (4.0 m) pet reticulated python. The apparent cause of death was asphyxiation. The snake was later found in the bedroom in an agitated state.[22]
On January 21, 2009, a 3-year-old Las Vegas boy was wrapped in the coils of an 18-foot (5.5 m) pet reticulated python, turning blue. The boy's mother, who had been babysitting the python on behalf of a friend, rescued the toddler by gashing the python with a knife. The snake was later euthanized because of its wounds.[23]

Considering the known maximum prey size, it is technically possible for a full-grown specimen of P. reticulatus to open its jaws wide enough to swallow a human teenager, but the width of the shoulders of adult Homo sapiens would probably pose a problem for even a snake with sufficient size.

Reproduction :

Oviparous, females lay between 15 and 80 eggs per clutch. At an optimum incubation temperature of 31–32°C (88–90°F), the eggs take an average of 88 days to hatch.[24]Hatchlings are at least 2 ft (61 cm) in length.[15]

Captivity

Increased popularity in the pet trade is due largely to increased efforts in captive breeding and selectively bred mutations such as the "albino" and "tiger" strains. They can make good captives, but keepers should have previous experience with such large constrictors to ensure safety to both animal and keeper. Although their interactivity and beauty draws much attention, some feel they are unpredictable.[25][26] They do not attack humans by nature, but will bite and possibly constrict if they feel threatened, or mistake a hand for food. While not venomous, large pythons can inflict serious injuries, sometimes requiring stitches.

Reticulated python with an unusual color pattern: Various color patterns are found in captive-bred specimens – some brought about by selective breeding.

The huge size and attractive pattern of these snakes has made them favorite zoo exhibits, with several individuals claimed to be above 20 ft (6.1 m) in length and more than one claimed to be the largest in captivity.[27][28][29][30] However, due to their huge size, immense strength, aggressive disposition, and the mobility of the skin relative to the body, it is very difficult to get exact length measurements on a living reticulated python, and weights are rarely indicative, as captive pythons are often obese.[11] Claims made by zoos and animal parks are sometimes exaggerated, such as the claimed 14.85 m (48.7 ft) snake in Indonesia which was subsequently proven to be about 6.5 m (21.3 ft) long.[31][32] For this reason, scientists do not accept the validity of length measurements unless performed on a dead or anesthetized snake which is later preserved in a museum collection or stored for scientific research.[11]

Also, dwarf forms of reticulated pythons occur, typically separate subspecies of the nominate mainland subspecies or crossbreeds thereof, from some islands that are north west of Australia, and where the adults rarely get more than 15 feet (4.6 m) long but are being bred to be much smaller. Males can be at most 5 feet (1.5 m) long, females a little longer.[citation needed]

Taxonomy

Three subspecies may be encountered, including two new ones:

P. r. reticulatus (Schneider, 1801) – Called "retics" in herpetoculture.
P. r. jampeanus Auliya et al., 2002 – Kayaudi dwarf reticulated pythons or Jampea retics, about half the length,[24] or according to Auliya et al. (2002), not reaching much more than 2 m (6.6 ft) in length.[14] Found on Tanahjampea in the Selayar Archipelago south ofSulawesi. Closely related to P. r. reticulatus of the Lesser Sundas.[14]
P. r. saputrai Auliya et al., 2002 – Selayer reticulated pythons or Selayer retics. Found on Selayar Island in the Selayar Archipelago and also adjacent Sulawesi. This subspecies represents a sister lineage to all other populations of reticulated pythons tested.[14] According to Auliya et al. (2002) it does not exceed 4 m (13.1 ft) in length.[14]

The latter two are dwarf subspecies. Apparently, the population of the Sangihe Islands north of Sulawesi represents another such subspecies which is basal to the P. r. reticulatus plus P. r. jampeanus clade, but it is not yet formally described.[14]

The proposed subspecies "dalegibbonsi", "euanedwardsi", "haydnmacphiei", "neilsonnemani", "patrickcouperi", and "stuartbigmorei"[3][33]have not found general acceptance.

A phylogenetic study of pythons has suggested that the reticulated python as well as the Timor python are more closely related to Australasian pythons, suggesting that they are an intermediate form between the

Leather goods and skins of Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus) and reticulated python at a local shop at Mandalay, Burma

Australasian pythons and the Afro-Asian genus Python, and should therefore be placed in a separate genus.[34] The genus nameBroghammerus was proposed by Raymond T. Hoser in 2003/2004.[3][4] Reynolds et al. described the genus Malayopython for this species and its sister species, the Timor python, calling the Timor python M. timoriensis.[5] Hoser has since said that the Malayopython name is a junior synonym of Broghammerus and thus should not be recognized by the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature.[35] Neither of these proposed reclassifications has been recognized by the ITIS.[1]

Reticulated Python Substrate :

We at Prehistoric Pets have used printed newspaper and plain newsprint with great success. Other options include aspen, cypress mulch or pre-cut corrugated cardboard. Check daily for defecation or urination and replace substrate accordingly.

Reticulated Python Lighting and Temperature :

A variety of options exist for heating reticulated pythons, such as heat pads, spot lamps (always use a cage guard to prevent injury), heat tape and heat panels. A high-quality thermostat is always worth the money to ensure that you are providing the proper options for healthy thermoregulation. Temperatures should range from 76 degrees Fahrenheit on the cool side to 92 degrees as a hotspot.

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Video :

Austin Stevens Reticulated Python

Reticulated Python Care Sheet

courtesy to : www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Snakes/Reticulated-Python/

BY JAY BREWER

Ruby-eyed ivory reticulated python.

Reticulated Python (Python reticulatus) :

The reticulated python, also known as the “retic,” has long captivated its audience with its large, muscular build, gorgeous iridescence and the beautifully patterned skin for which it is named. Long thought of as an aggressive, ill-tempered snake, the retic now, because of captive breeding, has a reputation as an easily cared for, highly intelligent and rewarding captive.

The reticulated python has a wide range in Southeast Asia, with most snakes kept as pets originating from Indonesia and Malaysia. Different populations are highly variable and have been divided into separate subspecies, with more undoubtedly to come as further research is conducted.

Reticulated Python Availability

Both imported and captive-bred reticulated pythons are commonly available year round. Fresh imports are very inexpensive, but they often carry heavy parasite loads and can have a difficult time adjusting to a captive environment. Because of large clutch sizes produced by captive breeders, there are plenty of healthy reticulated python hatchlings available, which tend to have better temperaments as well, so there is really no need to buy wild-caught animals. Because of the vast variety in adult sizes, temperaments and coloration, make sure you are buying from a reputable breeder who can provide detailed information on the individual animals you are considering. Please, always be responsible, and never release an animal intentionally, or take it into a situation where it may escape into the wild.

Coral sunglow reticulated python.

Reticulated Python Adult Size :

Mainland reticulated pythons (Python reticulatus reticulatus) are one of the world’s largest snakes, with exceptional examples being recorded at 32 feet long and weighing in at 350 pounds. These specimens are exceptional and very rare, with the average adult size staying between 10 to 20 feet long. On the other hand, several wild populations of reticulated pythons have proven to reach much smaller adult sizes than the “mainland” varieties. These “dwarf” reticulated pythons (P. r. jampeanus, and P. r. saputrai) max out at 10 to 12 feet, and there are also “super dwarf” reticulated pythons that appear to max out at 6 to 8 feet in length.

Reticulated Python Life Span :

On average, reticulated pythons live 15 to 20 years, with some individual snakes reaching 25 or even 30 years of age.

Reticulated Python Caging

The most important aspect of caging is that it must safely contain the snake. Tight-fitting racks or strong cages with locks are a must. Baby reticulated pythons can be kept in shoebox-sized cages or 10-gallon terrariums. Adult reticulated pythons can be housed in 2-foot-tall by 3-foot-wide by 6- to 8-foot-long cages. Occasional larger snakes may require a 3-foot-tall by 4-foot-wide by 10-foot-long enclosure. Custom-built cages should be constructed of strong, waterproof materials for ease of cleaning. Hide spots are a fundamental asset for all reptiles and are particularly effective for juvenile reticulated pythons. We recommend something tight fitting but with an entrance large enough for the animal to enter and exit easily. \

Super granite crown reticluated python.

Reticulated Python Food

Reticulated pythons are extremely food-oriented, and they love to eat! Most retics start off taking live food, but a fair amount can be transferred over to frozen/thawed prey items, or freshly killed prey items. If your reticulated python is not willing to take frozen/thawed food at first, offer it occasionally and the snake may begin to accept it eventually. Not all reticulated pythons will switch to dead food, however, and some will require live food as a permanent food source.

A good rule of thumb is to feed one prey item, of comparable girth to the thickest part of the snake’s body, every seven to 10 days. Reticulated pythons fed more often will grow faster and can reach greater lengths, but overfeeding snakes can cause health problems, as with any animal.

Sunfire platinum citron reticulated python.

Reticulated Python Water

A large water dish should be available at all times, constructed of dishwasher-safe or easily sanitized materials, and it should be heavy enough to not be easily tipped over. The water dish does not need to be large enough for your snake to soak in, though reticulated pythons can be soaked for a few hours in a separate container or a bathtub once they begin shedding to ease the removal of shed skin.