Mitochondrial genome of a Bolivian River Dolphin (Inia boliviensis).

Abstract

Inia boliviensis, the endemic Bolivian river dolphin, is threatened by anthropogenic activities including diversion of waterways for irrigation of agricultural fields, habitat degradation through deforestation, and the construction of hydroelectric dams. Within the department of Santa Cruz in Bolivia, conservation partners are committed to the capture and relocation of river dolphins that have been isolated through seasonally changing waterways, which are exacerbated by anthropogenic changes to local rivers' courses. During these rescue attempts, tissue samples were taken to better understand the genetic composition of the fragmented populations. Herein, we describe the newly sequenced and assembled Bolivian river dolphin mitochondrial genome. The genome assembly is 16,591 base pairs in length, with an overall base composition of 32.75% adenine, 25.85% thymine, 28.35% cytosine, and 13.05% guanine. This resource will pave the way for a better understanding of Bolivian river dolphin population genetics, which will help inform effective management of these vulnerable populations.