Complete mitochondrial DNA sequence of the endemic Japanese pond turtle Mauremys japonica (Reptilia: Testudines)

Abstract

The complete mitochondrial genome of the Japanese pond turtle Mauremys japonica from Japan was analyzed using next-generation sequencing. The mitochondrial genome of M. japonica was identified as a 16,443 bp circular molecule containing 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNA genes, along with 1 A + T-rich control region; the average AT content was 62.82%. One extra base was present at the 174th position in the ND3 gene. The phylogenetic analyses of the complete mitochondrial DNA genes strongly supported the result obtained from the phylogenetic analysis of partial DNA sequences, grouping the monophyletic species within the genus Mauremys.

Keywords

• next generation sequencing
• extra nucleotide
• near threatened species
• pond turtle
• endemic species