Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of wild yak (Bos mutus)

Abstract

Wild yak is a special breed in China and it is regarded as an important genetic resource for sustainably developing the animal husbandry in Tibetan area and enriching region’s biodiversity. The complete mitochondrial genome of wild yak (16,322 bp in length) displayed 37 typical animal mitochondrial genes and A + T-rich (61.01%), with an overall G + C content of only 38.99%. It contained a non-coding control region (D-loop), 13 protein-coding genes, two rRNA genes, and 22 tRNA genes. Most of the genes have ATG initiation codons, whereas ND2, ND3, and ND5 genes start with ATA and were encoded on H-strand. The gene order of wild yak mitogenome is identical to that observed in most other vertebrates. The complete mitochondrial genome sequence of wild yak reported here could provide valuable information for developing genetic markers and phylogenetic analysis in yak.