Principles of Genetics and Breeding

13.1.7.1.3.Cross breeding in catfishes

Crossbred channel catfish are widely cultured in the south-eastern states of the USA.The effects of crossbreeding between different strains of channel catfish were monitored for a number of production traits.

Crossbreds usually spawned earlier in the season and 3 year old parents showed higher spawning success and fecundity.

Growth rates of crossbreds exceeded those of the better parental strain in most cases. Increases of 55 percent in growth rate of channel catfish crossbreeds were achieved.

Performance of reciprocal crossbreds differed, e.g., growth of the best crossbred (Marion X Kansas) exceeded that of the better parent by 30%, while for the reciprocal this advantage was 8%.

Crossbreds also showed the highest tolerance to channel catfish virus, in a study involving domesticated and wild strains as well as interstrain crossbreds.

Cross-breeds of different strains of European catfish, Silurus glanis, are characterized by outstanding adaptability under warm water holding conditions and mixed diet feeding regimes.