Which species hybridizes with S. vitreus to produce the fertile cross known as "saugeye"?
Answer
Sander canadensis (sauger)
The sauger, scientifically designated as *Sander canadensis*, is the species that shares the *Sander* genus with the walleye and is known to hybridize with *S. vitreus*. This cross results in a fertile hybrid offspring termed the "saugeye." This documented interbreeding underscores the extremely narrow genetic boundary separating these two species within the genus. Conversely, hybridization with other Percids, such as yellow perch, is generally not documented because they are separated by the broader genus boundary, reinforcing the importance of the *Sander* grouping as a significant reproductive isolating factor.
Related Questions
What does the specific epithet vitreus in Sander vitreus reference?Which family classification places S. vitreus directly with the sauger (S. canadensis)?What defining skeletal characteristic separates the Class Actinopterygii from lobe-finned fishes?What is the global conservation status assessment (G5) assigned to Sander vitreus by NatureServe?Which species hybridizes with S. vitreus to produce the fertile cross known as "saugeye"?What physical feature is a primary characteristic of the genus Sander besides the elongated body?Before the acceptance of the genus Sander, what scientific name was often used for the walleye?What temperature range defines the preferred habitat classification for walleye as coolwater fish?Membership in the Phylum Chordata signifies that S. vitreus possesses which developmental structures?How are the two separate dorsal fins of Sander vitreus characterized morphologically?