What is the Difference Between Hybridization and Cross Breeding?

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The main difference between hybridization and crossbreeding lies in the parentage of the offspring:

  • Hybridization: This is the process of mating two different species or varieties of animals or plants to produce offspring with a combination of traits from both parents. Hybrids are much less common in nature compared to crossbreeds, as breeding between different species is often not possible due to reproductive barriers.
  • Crossbreeding: This involves the mating of two different breeds or strains within the same species to produce offspring with a combination of traits from both parents. Crossbreeding is more common in animal breeding rather than in plant breeding.

In summary, hybrids result from breeding between different species, while crossbreeds result from breeding between different breeds or strains within the same species. Both hybrids and crossbreeds can have advantages over purebred animals, such as increased genetic diversity, making them more adaptable to different environments.

Comparative Table: Hybridization vs Cross Breeding

Here is a table comparing hybridization and cross-breeding:

Feature Hybridization Cross-Breeding
Definition Hybridization is the process of mating two different species or varieties of animals or plants to create a new hybrid. Cross-breeding is the mating of two different strains or breeding lines of a species to combine desirable traits and enhance genetic diversity.
Type of mating Inter-specific (between different species). Intra-specific (within the same species).
Objective To create new breeds or strains, enhance productivity, and generate sterile individuals or organisms with desirable traits. To combine desirable traits and enhance genetic diversity, resulting in improved offspring.
Examples Mating between Tilapia nilotica and Tilapia hornorum. Mating different breeds of dogs or strains of plants within the same species.

In summary, hybridization involves mating different species or varieties to create new hybrids, while cross-breeding involves mating different strains or breeding lines within the same species to combine desirable traits and enhance genetic diversity.