What essential principle must keepers maintain when transitioning prey types from the Pantanal wild diet to captive rations?

The principle of providing a substantial, whole food source remains the same

Although the specific prey items offered in captivity—such as rabbits or guinea pigs—differ significantly from the caimans or capybaras found in the Pantanal, the underlying nutritional philosophy must remain consistent. The core principle involves providing a substantial, whole food source that fulfills the snake's high caloric requirements appropriate for its size. Failure to ensure adequate caloric intake during growth phases leads to stunted development, while inappropriate feeding, such as overfeeding large adults, results in obesity. Therefore, the *principle* of substantial caloric provision supersedes the specific identity of the prey species.