Python Ecosystems

Python is available through the Spack package manager with support for multiple versions, package managers, and development tools.

We provide two main Python options:

Native Python Module

• Direct Python installations (3.9, 3.10, 3.11, 3.12, 3.13)

• Lightweight and fast

• Supports modern package managers (pip, uv, pdm, poetry)

• Ideal for custom environments and production workflows

Anaconda3 Distribution

• Comprehensive Python distribution with conda

• Pre-installed scientific libraries

• Built-in environment management

• Ideal for data science and scientific computing

Documentation

• Native Python Module
• Anaconda3 Python Distribution

Package Manager & Tool

All native Python installations (3.9-3.13) include: pip, wheel, setuptools, uv, pdm, poetry, and Cython pre-installed.

Here is a quick comparison of their advantages and features:

Feature	Native Python	Anaconda3
Package Manager	pip, uv, pdm, poetry	conda, pip
Environment Tool	venv, uv, pdm, poetry	conda
Installation Speed	Fast (especially with uv)	Moderate
Pre-installed Packages	Minimal	Extensive (scientific stack)
Disk Space	Minimal	Large
Best For	Custom setups, production	Data science, quick start

Which Should I Use?

Choose Native Python if:

• You prefer modern tools like uv, poetry or pdm

• You want minimal disk usage

• You are building production python applications

• You need fine-grained control over dependencies

Choose Anaconda3 if:

• You are familiar with the conda ecosystem

• You are doing data science or scientific computing

• You want to import conda environments from other systems

• You would use non-python packages available in conda