Size variation, growth and body conformation of reciprocal hybrids of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell 1822) and Heterobranchus bidorsalis (Geoffroy, 1809).

Abstract

Reciprocal hybrids of Clarias gariepinus and Heterobranchus bidorsalis were compared for size variation, growth and body conformation. Growth was observed to be significantly faster (P<0.05), and size variation less pronounced (CV = 26%) for C. gariepinus (female) and H. bidorsalis (male) hybrid, than the reciprocal (CV=38%) No difference was observed in the body conformation between the reciprocal hybrids. However, the percent head length of the standard length was significantly smaller (P<0.05) in the reciprocal hybrids than that observed for the parent species.