In biology, a hybrid is the offspring resulting from the combination of traits from two organisms of different varieties, subspecies, species, or genera through sexual reproduction. Each cell in a hybrid contains genetic material from both parents, while an individual with cells from different organisms is called a chimera.
Hybrids can display hybrid vigor, growing larger or taller than either parent, and their interpretation varies between animal and plant breeding. In taxonomy, a key consideration is how closely related the parent species are.
Reproductive isolation between species occurs due to barriers that prevent hybridization, including genetic differences, timing of fertility, mating behaviors, and physiological rejection of sperm or embryos. Similar barriers exist in plants, affecting flowering times and pollen compatibility.
Some species, especially in plants like wheat, originate through hybrid speciation, which plays a significant role in agriculture.
