Your Guide to Accurate Morph & Genetics ID Requests
Welcome to the cutting edge of reptile keeping! Requesting an identification (ID) for a complex morph or determining potential genetics can be tricky, but our community experts are here to help!
To get the most accurate and fastest identification, you need to provide more than just a picture. Genetics and morphs rely on data and lineage.
1. 
The Essential Photo Checklist
Always include four clear, well-lit photos of the reptile. Poor lighting (especially flash) can distort color and pattern, making an ID impossible.
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Photo 1: The Full Body Shot: A clear picture showing the entire animal, head to tail. This is crucial for pattern and size assessment.
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Photo 2: Head/Neck Close-Up: Shows key markers like “head stamps” or patterns on the neck and jawline, which are often defining features of certain genes (e.g., Specter, Yellowbelly).
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Photo 3: Side View: Shows the pattern extending down the sides and belly area. This is essential for distinguishing single-gene mutations from complexes.
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Photo 4: Tail/Belly Shot (Optional but Recommended): A picture of the ventral (belly) pattern can help confirm or rule out certain genes (e.g., Calico/Piebald spotting).
2. 
The Required Data Checklist
Genetics are not just visual—they are about lineage! Your post must include this information in the text:
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Species: The exact species (e.g., Eublepharis macularius for Leopard Gecko, Boa constrictor imperator).
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Age/Weight: The animal’s approximate age or current weight. Genetics can change appearance as an animal grows.
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Source and Lineage (CRITICAL):
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If you purchased it: State the name of the breeder or vendor you bought it from, and what they claimed the ID was (even if you doubt it).
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If you bred it: State the exact morphs and genes of BOTH parents. Without knowing the parents, proving recessives or confirming hets is impossible.
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If the animal is a rescue/unknown: State that the lineage is unknown.
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Photo Conditions: Briefly state the lighting used (e.g., “Natural daylight near a window” or “LED light in a photo tub”).
3. 
What NOT to Do
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Do Not Post Edited Photos: Do not use filters or color-correcting software. Post the raw image straight from the camera.
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Do Not Get Defensive: If experts disagree with the ID you were given, be open-minded! Genetics are complex, and the goal is to get the facts right.
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Do Not Post Multiple Animals in One Thread: Start a new thread for each animal requiring an ID.
By providing these details, you help our top geneticists work their magic and provide the most accurate identification possible!