Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of the Liangzhou donkey (Equus asinus)

Abstract

Liangzhou donkey (Equus asinus) is one of the most important donkey species in China. In this study, we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome by next-generation sequencing method, the results show it was 16,560 bp in length, consisting 37 genes: 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and a non-coding control region. The base composition of the genome was 32.4% for A, 28.7% for C, 13.2% for G, and 25.7% for T； A + T for 58.1%. The phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that Liangzhou donkey was more closely related to Qingyang donkey and processed distinct relationships with other Chinese donkey breeds. This work characterized the mitochondrial genome of Equus asinus (Liangzhou donkey) and presents significant genetic information for this special species.

Keywords

• liangzhou donkey
• mitochondrial genome
• characterization