The complete mitochondrial genome of Sinocyclocheilus tingi (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae): characterization and phylogenetic position

Sinocyclocheilus tingi is a cyprinid fish species endemic to China and has been listed as endangered species in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, due to over-fishing, introduced species competition, and loss of spawning grounds. In this study, we first sequenced and characterized the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of S. tingi by next-generation sequencing. The complete mitogenome is 16,584 bp in length, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and control region. Its gene arrangement pattern was identical to that of Sinocyclocheilus fishes available in GenBank database. The overall base composition is 30.42% A, 25.34% T, 26.98% C and 17.26% G, showing AT-rich feature (55.76%). Phylogenetic analyses showed that S. tingi from Fuxian Lake was closely related to Sinocyclocheilus grahami from Dianchi Lake. This work would provide molecular information fundamental to conservation and resource restoration studies on this endangered fish species.