Evaluation of phylogenetic relationships of Antilopini and Oreotragini tribes (Bovidae: Artiodactyla) based on complete mitochondrial genomes

In this research, phylogenetic relationships of 24 species from the subfamily Antilopinae were evaluated using complete mitochondrial genomes. The average base composition of mtDNA sequences was 27.8% T, 25.2% C, 33.7% A, and 13.3% G, showing a strong AT bias (61.5%). The phylogenetic trees were investigated using the NJ, ME and UPGMA methods and found that they have very identical topologies. Overall, consistent with findings of previous studies, the results revealed that the Antilopini tribe has been correctly demarcated. Also, it was found that the Oreotragini tribe, which is represented by a single species (Oreotragus oreotragus), is completely separated from the Antilopini tribe and thus its taxonomic position must be reviewed again. In general, the results of this study indicated that the complete mitochondrial genomes are very useful, powerful, and accurate tools for evaluating the phylogenetic relationships of animals and biosystematics studies. Besides, using these genomes, we can meticulously reconstruct and modify the animal classification.