The complete mitochondrial genome of a stream loach (Schistura reticulofasciata) and its phylogeny

Abstract

The stream loach, Schistura reticulofasciata has high demand in ornamental fish trade due to its mesmerizing colorful banding pattern and size. In recent times, its abundance has declined severely in its habitat, and presently it has been assessed as vulnerable fish. Despite its threatened status, no nucleotide sequence information from this fish is publicly available in GenBank and the BOLD System. Here we describe the first complete mitogenome of S. reticulofasciata. The resulting circular mitogenome of S. reticulofasciata is 16,581 in length, comprising 13 protein-coding genes (PCG), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes (rRNA), one replication origin (OL) and one control region (D-loop). The overall genome size, gene arrangement, A + T content, AT-skew, GC-skew and partiality towards A and T in mitogenome were similar to those of other Schistura species. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the high sequence similarity and conserved synteny among the Schistura species. The primary genetic data developed in this study could be successively applied for species identification, genetic diversity studies and the formulation of effective conservation strategies for steam loaches.