Next-generation sequencing yields the complete mitochondrial genome of the endangered Milos viper Macrovipera schweizeri (Reptilia, Viperidae)

The Milos viper, Macrovipera schweizeri, is an endangered viperid snake found on four Aegean islands (Greece). Its complete mitochondrial genome, the first reported for the genus Macrovipera, was assembled through next-generation sequencing. Its total length is 17,152 bp and includes 22 tRNAs, two ribosomal RNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes and two control regions, showing the typical gene-arrangement for Viperidae. Eight tRNAs and ND3 are encoded on the light strand, while all other genes are encoded on the heavy strand. A mitogenomic phylogeny that included Macrovipera schweizeri and 13 other viperid genera returned an unresolved relationship among the genera Macrovipera, Daboia and Vipera.