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Posted by Pierson on October 04, 2002 at 16:36:35:
In Reply to: crossbred rat snake posted by Cidly on October 04, 2002 at 16:17:46:
Yellow Ratsnakes (Elaphe obsoleta quadrivittata) and Everglades Ratsnakes (E. o. rossalleni) aren't different species. They are different subspecies, which are basically geographical color variants. Different ssp. of ratsnakes kind of blend together over a cline where their ranges overlap and are then called "intergrades". They are completely capable of reproducing and having fertile offspring. The Gulf Hammock Ratsnake and the "Greenish" Ratsnake are examples of natural intergrades.
As far as different species (and genera) reproducing and having fertile offspring, yes they can. It appears that the genera Elaphe, Lampropeltis, and Pituophis are all very closely related and can all interbreed to produce fertile offspring. Take a look at the hybrid forum for some ungodly mixtures of various species. Hope this clarifies things.
