Complete mitochondrial DNA sequence of Stenopus hispidus (Crustacea: Decapoda: Stenopodidea) and a novel tRNA gene cluster

As a phylogenetically valuable decapoda, a complete mitochondrial genome from Stenopodidea has not been reported to date. Here, we determined the complete mitochondrial DNA sequence of Stenopus hispidus (Olivier, 1811). The 15,528 bp genome is a circular molecule and consists of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) and two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes plus the putative control region (CR). This finding is similar to other metazoan animals but with the exception of 23 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, which contain an additional tRNA-Gln compared with other crustaceans. With respect to the pancrustacean ground pattern mitochondria gene order, 5 tRNAs appear to be rearranged (tRNAs-Leu (CUN), Arg, Glu, Gln, and Met), one of which has also undergone inversion (tRNA-Leu (CUN)). Phylogenetic analyses reveal Stenopodidea and Reptantia form a clade sister to Caridea, which agrees with Abele and Felgenhauer's (1986) hypothesis. This topology contrasts with previous results based on morphological and some molecular data.

► We determine the first complete mitochondrial genome from Stenopodidea.
► Our research support the monophyly of Decapoda, Pleocyemata, Caridea, Stenopodidea and Reptantia.
► Our results reveal Caridea occupy the basal position in Pleocyemata with strong statistical support.
► Phylogenetic analyses reveal Stenopodidea and Reptantia form a clade sister to Caridea.