Principles of Genetics and Breeding

5.1.2.2 Intergeneric hybrids

5.1.2.2 Intergeneric hybrids (Hybrids produced by crossing between different genera)

i).O₊ Labeo rohita x Catla catla ♂ (Rohu–Catla hybrid)

ii) O₊Catla catla x Labeorohita ♂ (Catla-Rohu hybrid)

• Of all the hybrids rohu x catla is the most promising hybrid in terms of growth, food and feeding habits, viability and higher flesh content.
• Both hybrids are intermediate in most of the taxonomic characters.
• The most distinguishing feature of both hybrids is that in rohu x catla pectorals almost reach the ventral base, whereas in catla - rohu they do not reach the ventral base and leave a wide gap.
• In both hybrids, the head is smaller than catla and flesh more than either of the parents.
• Growth of both hybrids is faster than rohu but slower than catla.
• Even F₂ fry of rohu - catla hybrid grew faster than rohu but slower than catla in 6 months when reared in 0.1 ha pond. Rohu - catla hybrid attains maturity in 3 years.
• Rohu x catla hybrid when compared to equal sized parent contains more quantity of flesh (54 percent) than catla (44 percent) and rohu (48 percent).
• Catla-calbasu hybrid grows faster than calbasu, has a smaller head than that of catla, accepts artificial feed more readily (unlike catla which does not accept artificial food readily).