Python (genus)

Pythons are a genus of constricting snakes within the Pythonidae family. These snakes are native to the tropics and subtropics of the Eastern Hemisphere. They are known as constrictors, which means they use their bodies to squeeze prey. The name "python" comes from Latin and Greek words. These words refer to a serpent from Greek myth. In that myth, a serpent was slain near Delphi by Apollo.

Scientists use taxonomy to group these animals based on their shared traits. François Marie Daudin proposed the name Python in 1803. He chose this name for non-venomous snakes with flecked skin and long, split tongues. The way we classify these snakes has changed over time. In 1993, researchers recognized seven valid species. Today, ten python species are recognized as valid taxa. Some scientists use phylogenetic analyses to group them. These studies suggest there may actually be between seven and 13 species.

Pythons live in many different environments across two continents. In Africa, they live in the tropics south of the Sahara. However, they are not found in Madagascar or the extreme south-western tip of southern Africa. In Asia, their range is very wide. They live in places like Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. They also live in Myanmar, southern China, and the Philippines. This wide distribution shows how well they adapt to different tropical habitats.

There are many distinct types of pythons with unique characteristics. The Ball python, or Python regius, is a well-known species. The Burmese python, or Python bivittatus, is another large type. Other species include the Sumatran short-tailed python and the Bornean python. There is also the Angolan python and the Central African rock python. Even an extinct species once existed. A trunk vertebra found in France suggests a European python lived there during the Miocene epoch.

Some pythons have become invasive in new areas. The Burmese python and the Central African rock python may be problematic in South Florida. In early 2016, a culling operation in Everglades National Park found 106 pythons. Officials suggested that thousands might live in the park. They believe the species has been breeding there for several years. However, recent data suggests these pythons might not survive winter climates north of Florida. This contradicts older research about their potential geographic range.

Humans interact with pythons through the pet trade and the fashion industry. Many species like the Ball python are popular pets. They are chosen for their docile temperament and vibrant colors. Some pythons have mutations, such as the "Spider" morph. These rare mutations can sell for several thousands of dollars. Pythons in the pet trade are either sourced from the wild or are captive-bred. Captive-bred means the parents were born in a controlled setting.

Python skin is also a major global commodity. It is used to make clothing like vests, belts, boots, and shoes. The skin is even used for fashion accessories like handbags. Some musical instruments use stretched python skin as a sound board. This includes the erhu spike-fiddle and various lutes like the sanxian. Because there is high demand, countries in Africa and Southern Asia sell the skin. There is a large economic gap between the hunters and the consumers.