Abstract:
Hybridization of wildlife species, even in the
absence of introgression, is of concern due to wasted
reproductive effort and a reduction in productivity. In this
study we detail an accidental mating between a female
nyala (Tragelaphus angasii) and a male greater kudu (T.
strepsiceros). The hybrid was phenotypically nyala and
was identified as such based on mitochondrial DNA. Further
genetic analysis based on nine microsatellite markers,
chromosome number and chromosome morphology however,
confirmed its status as an F1 hybrid. Results obtained
from a reproductive potential assessment indicated that this
animal does not have the potential to breed successfully
and can be considered as sterile.
