The complete mitochondrial genome sequence and phylogenetic analysis for Rhabdophis himalayanus (Squamata: Colubridae)

AbstractRhabdophis himalayanus listed as a vulnerable species has been included in the IUCN Red List. Here, the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of this kind of snake is first reported. The genome is 17,149 bp in length, containing 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and 2 D-loop regions. The mitochondrial genome order, nucleotide composition, and codon usage pattern of it are similar to other snakes. The phylogenetic results indicating that R. himalayanus can be firmly placed in the family Colubridae, under the genus Rhabdophis.