Abstract
We analyzed the complete mitochondrial genome of the Asian tropical hornet Vespa affinis from Ishigaki Island, Japan. It consisted of a circular molecule with 19,109 bp, which is larger to other hornet species e.g. V. velutina. We predicted the genome contained 13 protein-coding, 22 tRNA, and two rRNA genes, along with one A + T-rich control region. The repetitive sequences were confirmed at multiple positions in the non-coding genes. The initiation codons ATA was found in one, ATG in seven, and ATT in five genes, while the termination codons TAA and TAG were observed 11 and two genes, respectively. The average AT content of the genome was 78.4%.
Highlights
The V. affinis mitochondrial genome forms a 19,109 bp-long closed loop (accession number AP018371)
The V. affinis mitochondrial genome forms a 19,109 bp-long closed loop. It is ~2400 bp shorter than the V. velutina genome it has a very similar genomic organization, since it is comprised of 13 protein-coding, 22 putative tRNA, and two rRNA genes, as well as an A+T-rich control region
The average AT content of the 13 protein-coding genes was 78.4%, similar to the 82% found in V. velutina (Takahashi et al, 2017)
Summary
The V. affinis mitochondrial genome forms a 19,109 bp-long closed loop (accession number AP018371). There are 22 hornet (genus Vespa) species (Archer 2012; Perrard et al 2013) and these have become an important model group for research into social systems such as; worker altruistic behaviors, reproductive conflict, evolution of the queen number and development of sociality (Matsuura 1990; Foster and Ratnieks 2001).
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