Hybridization of Clarias spp. and Heteropneustes fossilis in Tripura, India

The study was conducted to evaluate the viability of hybridization of different species of catfishes found in India. During different interspecific and intergeneric hybridization, maximum fertilization was found in cross II i.e. Clarias gariepinus ♂ x Clarias batrachus ♀ with 80% success and minimum success (40%) was encountered in cross IV (Clarias gariepinus ♂ x Heteropneustes fossilis ♀). Incubation period varied from 21 to 34 hours in different crosses with 35-75% hatching success. Incubation of eggs were done in modified ‘Flow-through System’. The absorption of yolk sacs in all the crosses was noticed within 4-5 days time of development. All the larvae were fed with mixed zooplankton from 2nd day onwards (before absorption of yolk sac) which accelerated the survival rates of the larvae. A formulated feed was also used to feed the larvae. Maximum survival rate was found in cross II from 0 to 15 days of larval rearing. Growth performance was also encouraging in the cross II after 15 days of rearing as compared to other crosses.