Complete mitochondrial DNA sequence of the tropical hornet Vespa affinis (Insecta, Hymenoptera)

Abstract

We analyzed the complete mitochondrial genome of the Asian tropical hornet Vespa affinis from Ishigaki Island, Japan. It consisted of a circular molecule with 19,109 bp, which is larger to other hornet species e.g. V. velutina. We predicted the genome contained 13 protein-coding, 22 tRNA, and two rRNA genes, along with one A + T-rich control region. The repetitive sequences were confirmed at multiple positions in the non-coding genes. The initiation codons ATA was found in one, ATG in seven, and ATT in five genes, while the termination codons TAA and TAG were observed 11 and two genes, respectively. The average AT content of the genome was 78.4%.