Ghost / Hypo / Orange Ghost (MLPH-related) - Ball python

This genetic test analyzes the MLPH variant c.4919_4923del associated with Ghost / Hypo / Orange Ghost in the ball python. Animals with this variant may show a lighter, more diluted brown-to-black coloration. Their shed skin also often contains very little pigment.

This trait shows recessive inheritance. In practice, this means an animal usually displays the associated phenotype only when it inherits the tested variant from both parents. Animals with one copy are typically carriers and can pass the variant on to offspring without fully showing the characteristic appearance.

The result helps determine whether the tested animal is clear, carrier, or positive for this specific variant. This can be highly useful for breeding decisions, phenotype interpretation, and better understanding the animal’s genetic background. Other colour genes and genetic factors may still influence the final appearance.

This test is specific to the tested MLPH variant and does not completely exclude other possible genetic causes of a similar phenotype.