intergeneric

Intergeneric is an adjective used in biology to describe something involving two different genera or resulting from a cross between two genera. It is most commonly encountered in discussions of hybridization and taxonomy, where the term distinguishes crosses or relationships that span generically distinct lineages.

In plants, intergeneric hybridization is more common than in animals and is frequently pursued in breeding programs. Through artificial crosses, embryo rescue, or chromosome doubling, researchers and breeders can produce intergeneric hybrids that combine traits from distinct genera. Such hybrids are often sterile, require chromosomal stabilization, or are propagated by tissue culture.

In animals, intergeneric crosses are less common due to greater genetic and reproductive barriers. When attempted, they may produce rare viable offspring that are typically sterile or have reduced fitness; documented cases are limited and often subject to debate.

In taxonomy and phylogenetics, intergeneric relations describe connections between different genera rather than within a single genus. The term emphasizes the boundaries and evolutionary distance between genera, and is mainly used in descriptive contexts rather than formal classification, except when referring to intergeneric hybrids.

See also

- interspecific

- hybridization

- polyploidy

- intrageneric

- taxonomic rank