This is the normal/original leopard gecko morph. It’s usually done to produce offspring that have the same characteristics. Line breeding is the process of breeding reptiles with a particular set of characteristics.It’s usually done to reduce the chances of a genetic defect, introduce a new trait, or create a very different physical outcome. Out-crossing – this is the process of breeding reptiles with different traits.Each parent is responsible for one copy. Homozygous leopard geckos – have two copies of the same trait.Heterozygous leopard geckos – these have one copy of a normal trait and one of a recessive one.Genotype – this word describes the genetic makeup of your leopard gecko.Phenotype – this word describes the observable characteristics of your leopard gecko.They are caused by two different dominant genes, one from each parent. Codominant/incomplete dominant traits – these are two different traits that physically manifest simultaneously.Recessive gene – this is a gene that has to be passed down by both parents for an offspring to have its physical manifestation.So when one parent has a dominant gene, its offspring will have physical manifestations of this gene. Dominant traits – these are traits that have physical manifestations even when your leopard gecko has only one gene associated with them.To better understand this process and morphs in general, you need to understand the terms below: Beyond that, mutated genes (aka alleles) are usually associated with morphs that can then be passed onto offspring. While some morphs are a result of random mutations, many are made through purposeful selective breeding.īefore you get to breeding your leopard geckos, you need to understand some basic genetics.įor one, each leopard gecko has two copies of each gene within its DNA.Ī parent supplies each copy.

Final thoughts What is a leopard gecko morph?Ī leopard gecko morph displays a variation in color, pattern, or any other physical trait.

Lavender tangerine leopard gecko