Insights into the structural features and phylogenetic implications of the complete mitochondrial genome of Fasin rainbow fish (Melanotaenia fasinensis)

The Fasin rainbow fish, scientifically named Melanotaenia fasinensis, is highly prized by aquarium enthusiasts for its vibrant colors and adaptability to artificial aquatic environments. This species is endemic to the karst landscape of the Bird’s Head region in Papua, Indonesia, and belongs to the family Melanotaeniidae. Discovered relatively recently in 2010, this species was designated as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2021. However, there is currently insufficient data regarding its phylogenetic position. To address this gap, our study employed next-generation sequencing (NGS) to analyze the entire mitochondrial genome of M. fasinensis. The mitochondrial genome comprises 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and two ribosomal RNA genes, with a total length of 16,731 base pairs. The base composition of the mitogenome revealed percentages of 27.76% adenine (A), 27.34% thymine (T), 16.15% guanine (G), and 28.75% cytosine (C) residues. Our phylogenetic analysis based on sequence data indicated that all species of the Melanotaeniidae family clustered together on the same branch. Furthermore, the intergeneric and interspecific taxonomic positions were explicit and clear. Phylogenetically, Melanotaeniidae were more closely related to the family Isonidae than to the family Atherinomorus. The phylogenetic position of M. fasinensis was relatively basal within the genus Melanotaenia. This study provides valuable molecular insights for further exploration of the phylogeography and evolutionary history of M. fasinensis and other members of the genus Melanotaenia.