How does the Yellow Belly gene structurally alter the dark dorsal markings of a normal Ball Python?

The dark dorsal markings tend to break up more significantly

The Yellow Belly gene introduces a degree of pattern reduction across the body, which specifically impacts the dark markings. Where a normal Ball Python displays a relatively consistent pattern of dark brown to black blotches, the Yellow Belly morph causes these dorsal markings to break up to a much greater extent. This disruption can manifest as thinner pattern lines or saddles that are smaller and less connected along the vertebral column compared to a wild-type animal. This structural alteration, coupled with the increased brightness of the ground color showing through, results in the overall appearance of reduced pattern density across the back of the snake.