Molecular characterization of Malapterurus minjiriya Sagua, 1987 and phylogenetic relationships within the genus Malapterurus (Silurifomes, Malapteruridae) from Nigerian inland water bodies.

Abstract

Molecular (mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1- COI) analysis was performed to characterize the poorly known Malapterurus minjiriya from Nigerian inland water bodies. Integrative taxonomy, involving morphological and molecular data, confirms the identity of M. minjiriya. Matrilineal genealogy reveals a sister relationship of M. minjiriya with Malapterurus electricus and Malapterurus microstoma. The genetic analysis further shows evidence of population divergence within M. electricus and Malapterurus beninensis. The findings of the study highlight the importance of the integration of DNA barcoding in biodiversity documentation of freshwater fish species in Nigeria.