Genomic resources for Xiphophorus research

Xiphophorus fishes and interspecies hybrids are used in many areas of contemporary research. Due to their high degree of heterozygosity Xiphophorus interspecies hybrids are extremely valuable models for molecular genetic study of gene regulation in physiology and behavior. Historically, Xiphophorus fish have made a contribution to understanding the genetics underlying tumorigenesis but the role this experimental model system may play in contemporary comparative biology has only just begun to be realized. In spite of many advantages a genome-level Xiphophorus sequencing project has not yet been initiated. In order to set a stage for a genome-level initiative, many Xiphophorus resources have recently been, or are currently being developed. Recent completion of the Xiphophorus gene linkage map, construction of microsatellite marker and EST databases, and the accessibility of BAC library resources hallmark the progress in development of genomic capabilities for Xiphophorus investigations. Herein we review current Xiphophorus genomic resources and to provide the reader with information that will enable them to access these resources available to enhance their investigations.