Hybridization in Oncorhynchus (Salmonidae). I. Viability and Inheritance in Artificial Crosses of Chum and Pink Salmon

Abstract

Survival and fertility are substantial in first-generation hybrids. Morphological features in the F1 are either like one parent, unlike either parent, or intermediate. Failure of hybrids to be intermediate in some parental attributes is contrasted to earlier reports. Hybrid fertility is equated to persistence of parental traits in the phenotype of the F1. Multiple and additive gene systems are assumed to be operative wherein dominance is suspected in two characteristics. Viability data are provided on F1, F2, reciprocal, and backcross hybrids. Morphological descriptions contained provide some basis for recognizing natural chum-pink hybrids.