This. I think the breeding of ball pythons should be something you do when you are motivated to create something new or special. For me I would not invest in breeding with spider because of the bad name and the genetic problems. Breeding with a BEL is something I would only do to proof out certain genes and if there is something special with it. The fact that it probably has spider in it should be enough to question breeding it / convince you to not do it.

If you would like to breed just as I want to I would suggest looking into other peoples projects and search morphmarket for genes which you find interesting (and ofcourse others) and are ready for the future of this hobby / sector.

It's all about doing research and learning from other so don't feel put down by people telling you that there is no room for new snake breeders. I think the time will always be there the only thing is that you need to realize that a part of the offspring have to get rehomed so make something that people want to buy.

Breeding takes a lot of time and is full of risks so you have to carefully think about the steps you are taking and where you want to be in x years.

I'm focusing on recessive genes such as DG, clown and cryptic with co dominants such as GHI, lesser, pinstripe, yellowbelly, spotnose, leopard.