Investigation of Potential Hybridization Among Black Bass Species in Alan Henry Reservoir, Texas

Reports of extensive hybridization among black bass species throughout North America as well as anecdotal information from anglers led to an investigation of the possibility of hybridization between Alabama bass (M. henshalli) and both subspecies of largemouth bass (M. salmoides salmoides and M. s. floridanus) in Alan Henry Reservoir, Texas. Fish were collected and identified by field staff and then by using genetic markers. Results suggested no hybridization had occurred between Alabama bass and largemouth bass in Alan Henry Reservoir; however, genetic markers did reveal misclassifications when identification was based on morphology.