Abstract: A method for the prediction of hybrid traits in plants and animals, wherein sRNA molecules which are associated with a hybrid trait are identified and parent lines which are suitable for the production of hybrids are analyzed for the level of an expression of the identified sRNA molecules. The invention allows the selection of suitable organisms for the production of plant and animal hybrids having an increased hybrid vigor respectively heterosis for one or more hybrid traits, such as yield, fertility, stress resistance, etc.