Molecular phylogenetic analysis of Diacyclops and Acanthocyclops (Copepoda: Cyclopoida) from Lake Baikal based on COI gene

Lake Baikal is inhabited by a relatively large number of cyclopid species, many of which are endemics. Two genera, Diacyclops Kiefer, 1927 and Acanthocyclops Kiefer, 1927, are the most specious in the lake. Taxonomic discrimination of the majority of representatives of these genera is difficult owing to their high morphological similarities and poor standard description. In this study, a molecular phylogenetic analysis of Lake Baikal members of the Diacyclops/Acanthocyclops group is performed on the basis of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. It is shown that a fragment of COI 1000 bp long is sufficient for intragenus discrimination of the cyclopids of Lake Baikal. The issues of Diacyclops/Acanthocyclops taxonomy are reflected in the obtained molecular data. Two distinct phylogenetic groups of Diacyclops genus with uncertain taxonomic status are revealed.