ELI5 Ligers - why are they bigger than lions and tigers?

Why are Ligers larger in size than both Tigers and Lions? Why can only certain species interbreed? Why are Lions and Tigers polar opposites in terms of their character and physical attributes? Lions and tigers have a significant cultural presence in art, literature, and media. How do these representations influence public perception in different countries? Who would win in a 1 on 1 fight between a lion and tiger? ... we explain like I'm five Thank you to the r/explainlikeimfive community and in particular the following users whose questions and comments formed the basis of this discussion: pigthewise, mistersixfold, sohamp97, culturalappropriator and kingofthekingpeople To the ELI5 community that has supported us so far, thanks for all your feedback and comments. Send us an e-mail: [email protected]