Marine and Fishery Sciences (MAFIS), Vol. 39 Num. 1, 2026
Mechaly, A.S, Cardoso, Y. P.
Highlights
- Argentina hosts more than 1,100 fish species, yet less than 1.5% have sequenced genomes, reflecting a significant gap in genomic representation.
- Current resources are uneven in quality, with many assemblies remaining at draft level and limited practical applicability.
- Coordinated national strategies, improved infrastructure, and stronger bioinformatic capacity are essential to close this gap.
- Expanding high-quality genome assemblies will enhance conservation, sustainable fisheries management, and aquaculture innovation in the country.
Abstract
Fish genomics has become an essential tool to explore the genetic basis of biological processes, such as biodiversity, evolution, and adaptation, as well as for direct applications in conservation, aquaculture, and fisheries management. Argentina, home to more than 1,100 fish species and diverse aquatic ecosystems, holds enormous potential for genomic research. Although historically underrepresented in global databases, recent progress (including genome sequencing of commercially and ecologically important species) signals growing momentum in the field. This note provides an overview of the current state of fish genomics in Argentina, highlights notable contributions, and underscores the need for high-quality genome assemblies, national coordination, and broader taxonomic coverage to ensure that the country’s biodiversity is adequately represented and preserved.
