Fig. 69. Red Hybrids (Life sice) 



One of the most remarkable productions in hyljridization. On opposite page, 

 number 3, is a small, deep-red fish. Ntiml)er 1 is greenish with some red mark- 

 ings. This cross produces some reddish hyljrids, iilotched black. When the reddest 

 of these females is bred to number 7, we get a magnificent, large red fish. It 

 grows rapidly and becomes considerably larger than any of its progenitors. These 

 hyljrids lired together throw a surprisingly high percentage of reds — well over half. 

 In a few generations of selectixe Iireeding we should have a very fine strain of these 

 beautiful fishes. Hybrids in fishes seem to be more fertile than in warm-blooded 

 animals. 



The female (upper figure) was "ripe" when the photograph was made, shown 

 by distended outline and by the dark spot near the vent. 



The possibilities of hybridization amrjng live-bearing fishes are not fully known, 

 but the subject is receiving careful study. To be sure of known crosses it is best 

 to place the two fishes together before sexual characteristics have developed. If 

 the se.xes do not turn out right, one still has virgin fishes to cross with those from 

 other experimental aquaria. A female imce impregnated is fertile for four lots 

 of young. 



