The complete mitochondrial genome of Xenopsylla cheopis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae)

Abstract

Xenopsylla cheopis, also called oriental rat flea, is an ectoparasite as well as disease vector for murine typhus and bubonic plague. In the study, the whole mitochondrial genome of X. cheopis was sequenced and assembled, which is the second report of mitochondrial genome in the family Pulicidae and the sixth mitochondrial genome in the order Siphonaptera (fleas). The mitochondrial genome is 18,902 bp in length, consisting of 40% A, 44% T, 6% G, and 10% C. Phylogenetic analysis of all available mitochondrial genomes from Siphonaptera indicated that X. cheopis clustered with Ctenocephalides felis since both species belonged to the family Pulicidae. The complete mitochondrial genome of X. cheopis could serve as useful genetic data for investigating the genetic relationship of fleas.