Comparative Analysis of the Mitochondrial Genome of Accipiter nisus

Accipiter nisus is a small to medium-sized raptor widely distributed across Eurasia and parts of Africa. In this study, we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of A. nisus from Mianyang using the Illumina platform. We then compared mitochondrial genome A. nisus variations across four regions and analyzed the phylogenetic relationship of this species within the genus Accipiter. The results indicate that the mitochondrial genome of A. nisus from Mianyang is 18297 bp in length, which is smaller than those from Qufu (18647 bp), Yeongyang-gun (18352 bp), and Buk-Gu (19417 bp). The genomes of all four individuals contain 37 genes, an A+T-rich control region, and a pseudo-control region, with the most notable length variation occurring in the pseudo-control region. Additionally, inconsistencies in the usage of start and stop codons were observed in some protein-coding genes (PCGs). Phylogenetic analysis based on 13 PCGs and CYTB genes revealed that A. nisus is phylogenetically related to A. gentilis. This study provides essential genetic data and scientific evidence for A. nisus conservation.