Complete mitochondrial genome of the two-spotted stag beetle, Metopodontus blanchardi (Coleoptera: Lucanidae)

Abstract

We have completely sequenced the mitochondrial genome (mitogeome) of the two-spotted stag beetle, Metopodontus blanchardi, which is listed as a first-degree endangered species in Korea. The complete mitogenome of M. blanchardi was determined to be 21,628 bp, indicating at least 5 kb larger in size than typical animal mitogenomes. Such a long M. blanchardi genome stems from a 3100-bp long A + T-rich region and a 4051-bp long, large non-coding sequence located between tRNA^Ile and tRNA^Gln. The A + T-rich region is composed of duplicated repeat sequences (each 965 bp and 969 bp), and three non-repeat sequences encompassing the repeat sequences. The 4051-bp long non-coding sequence is composed of ∼17 tandem repeat sequences, each of which is composed of two subunits (113-bp and 104-bp long subunits) and this is encompassed by non-repeat sequences. The start codon for COI gene of M. blanchardi was designated as unconventional AAG (Lysine) by following a previous study.

• A + T-rich region
• mitochondrial genome
• Metopodontus blanchardi
• tandem repeat sequence

Declaration of interest

This work was supported by research grants from National Institute of Biological Resources-“The Genetic Evaluation of Important Biological Resources” awarded to Iksoo Kim. The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.