Complete mitochondrial genomes and phylogenetic analysis of four Baikal endemic Batrachocottus species (Scorpaeniformes: Cottoidei)

Baikal sculpins are the most species-rich and ecologically diverse group of fishes in the Lake. We analyzed complete mitochondrial genomes from four species of the endemic Baikal genus Batrachocottus (B. baicalensis, B. multiradiatus, B. talievi, and B. nikolski). Mitogenome sequences are 16,523-16,535 bp in length with a mitogenomic organization and gene arrangement identical to that of typical teleosts. Phylogenetic analysis using the Bayesian method positioned B. baicalensis outside the monophyletic clades of the genus Batrachocottus. Batrachocottus multiradiatus and B. talievi are sister species.

Automated summary

Baikal sculpins are the most diverse group of fishes in Lake Baikal, with four species from the endemic genus Batrachocottus analyzed in this study. The mitochondrial genomes of these species are similar in organization and gene arrangement to typical teleosts. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that B. baicalensis is located outside the monophyletic clades of the genus Batrachocottus, with B. multiradiatus and B. talievi being sister species.