Hybrid Vigor

Hybrid vigor is the aggressive, large, strong, and  productive characteristics displayed by an organism that is the result of two genetically different species.  A donkey and a horse produce a hybrid called a mule, that is strong as a donkey, with the endurance of the horse- both of which are desired characterisics for that particular cross. The problem with hybrid vigor is that the organism typically is sterile, unable to reproduce.
 
I believe that there has been some degree of hybrid vigor expressed in AG's.  Allow me to demonstrate.  Take a look at the lineages of two of the biggest pumpkins ever grown, the Checkon 1130 and 1191.  The fact that the parents of these pumpkins have little or no common link leads me to believe that their backgrounds are significantly different.  There is only one occasion in their hierarchy where the same name appears in both parents.  Next, take a look at the progeny trees.  There is not much there.  Correct me if I am wrong, but didnt both pumpkins produce sterile seed, or no seed at all?  Remember the two requirments of hybrid vigor- large size and sterile or no seed, in the case of pumpkins.
 
I am not concluding that this is indeed hybrid vigor in AG's, but I do ask you to take a look at the evidence and draw your own conclusions.  True Hybrid vigor in AG's may be a long way off, simply because our degree of genetic variability is not great enough.  But....  There are ways to speed up the process of widening the gap of variability between two seeds. I have some ideas in mind on how to increase the chances of hybrid vigor.  If you are interested, email me privately.  I may post it on the list if people would like to see it.
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