Next-generation sequencing yields a nearly complete mitochondrial genome of the Forsyth’s toad-headed agama, Phrynocephalus forsythii (Reptilia, Squamata, Agamidae)

Abstract

Forsyth’s toad-headed agama, Phrynocephalus forsythii, is endemic to the Taklamakan Desert. A nearly complete mitochondrial genome of one individual for this species was determined by next-generation sequencing. The mitogenome is 16,060 bp in length, comprising 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), and a control region (D-loop). The gene arrangement and composition of P. forsythii is identical to the mitogenome of P. theobaldi in that tRNA-Pro was translocated immediately downstream of tRNA-Phe. The D-loop comprised two parts, one (783 bp) existing between tRNA-Thr and tRNA-Phe and another (with 200 bp already sequenced) inserting between tRNA-Pro and 12S rRNA. This mitogenome sequence may provide more data for unveiling the phylogenetic origin and adaptive evolution related to Phrynocephalus viviparity.