Hybrid species can be produced by

Options

A. interspecific hybridization
B. inbreeding
C. outcrossing
D. both (1) & (2)

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Hybrid Species**: Hybrid species are produced when two different species interbreed. This process is known as hybridization.

2. **Identifying Interspecific Hybridization**: Interspecific hybridization refers to the mating between individuals of different species. For example, a mule is a hybrid produced from the mating of a male donkey and a female horse. This is a classic example of interspecific hybridization.

3. **Analyzing the Result of Interspecific Hybridization**: The offspring (in this case, the mule) is a new entity that is distinct from both parent species, although it is typically sterile due to differences in chromosome numbers between the two parent species.

4. **Differentiating from Inbreeding**: Inbreeding involves mating between individuals of the same breed or species. This does not produce hybrid species, as the genetic makeup remains similar and does not introduce new species characteristics.

5. **Understanding Outcrossing**: Outcrossing also involves mating within the same breed but with individuals that do not share common ancestors for several generations. Similar to inbreeding, this does not result in hybrid species since the genetic material is still from the same breed.

6. **Conclusion**: The only method that produces hybrid species is interspecific hybridization, where two different species are crossed to create a new hybrid species.

**Final Answer**: Hybrid species can be produced by interspecific hybridization.

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