Hybridization

It is a breeding method, where in two known parents are crossed with the objective of achieving hybrid vigour or heterosis. Parents may belong two varieties of same species or two species of same genus.

Intra Specific Hybridization

Hybridization within a species involving known parents of two varieties. The varieties involved in hybridization have welldefined characters. They are crossed to achieve heterosis. The offsprings are subjected to selection to eliminate of undesirable combinations.

Heterosis

The hybrids express vigour in a particular character, by virtue of which they are superior to their parents. This phenomenon is called hybrid vigour or heterosis.

Inter Specific Hybridization

Two parents of known well defined characters belonging to two different species within a genus are crossed to achieve heterosis.

Some important hybrids (both inter specific and intra specific) are listed in

Similar to selection process, hybridization and other breeding methods are aimed at improving specific characters in the crop. They could be yield potentiality, quality improvement, resistance to pests and diseases etc., The heterosis in offsprings is of great significance in breeding programmes.