1. The increased vigor, growth, or fertility of offspring resulting from the crossing of genetically different parents; hybrid vigor.
Usage: technical; biology

Examples

• Farmers often rely on heterosis to produce corn hybrids with higher yields.
• The heterosis effect in the first generation of crosses can be dramatic and economically significant.
• Plant breeders exploit heterosis to develop crops that are more disease-resistant and productive.
• Heterosis explains why hybrid animals sometimes outperform their purebred parents in strength and health.
• The phenomenon of heterosis has been observed in many species, from plants to livestock.