I'm almost embarrassed to post these pics in the same week that saw a 5.5 lb RES, and a 3.2 lb BG, but here goes anyway. I caught 8 female hybrids during tonight's fishing. No males, as they are occupied building and guarding nests'. Since I know I need to harvest some fish, I kept them for the table. All were carrying eggs, so no doubts on the gender.
Thought I would share some photos, to try and show the differences that I see on my fish. I still have some questions in regards to my fish, as I wonder if these females are F2's, or reciprocal crosses, or if this truly is the norm for female HBG.
What I see upon comparing the two fish: The males are blockier, as in taller, much darker, and a vivid orange breast compared to the females yellow breast. These traits are also usually apparent on "native" BG, especially during the spawning period. However, my fish display these traits year-round. In addition, the males have larger mouths, and the "chest" area below the gills has a much more pronounced "hump", compared to the females who have a more streamlined transition to the stomach area.
I would very much like to see other pics of verified female HBG, to compare with my own. These fish can exhibit quite a range of appearances, It would be helpful to establish a visual baseline, regarding gender, and the variations that occur in different genetic crossings.
"Forget pounds and ounces, I'm figuring displacement!"
If we accept that: MBG(+)FGSF(=)HBG(F1) And we surmise that: BG(>)HBG(F1) while GSF(<)HBG(F1) Would it hold true that: HBG(F1)(+)AM500(x)q.d.(=)1.5lbGRWT? PB answer: It depends.
