The grey-shanked douc langur (Pygathrix cinerea) is a recently described, critically endangered primate, endemic to Vietnam. In this study, we describe the Central Highland species’ complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome—mtDNA). It is a circular molecule with a length of 16,541 base pairs (bp). The genome consists of 37 genes, consistent with those found in most other vertebrates, including 13 protein coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs, and two ribosomal RNAs. A comparison with the mitogenomes of more than 50 primates showed that the mitogenome of Vietnamese Central Highland Pygathrix cinerea has a conservative gene order. We identified 43 nucleotide differences when comparing this genome with a previously published mitogenome of Pygathrix cinerea. It is evident that there are distinct differences between the Pygathrix cinerea we are currently studying and other Pygathrix cinerea specimens. These differences are unlikely to be solely the result of sequencing errors, as the mitogenomes were generated using high-quality methods. The genetic divergence observed between the two Pygathrix cinerea mitogenomes implies the potential existence of at least two distinct lineages or forms of this primate species within its native range in Vietnam.

Hybridization between domestic pigs and wild boars of unknown origins has disrupted the precious gene pool of Vietnamese wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations in the Central Highlands. However, the genetic background of Vietnamese wild boars remains largely unknown. This study describes the complete mitochondrial genome of the Vietnamese Central Highland wild boar, a circular molecule comprising 16,581 base pairs (bp). The mitogenome contains 37 genes, which encode for 2 ribosomal RNAs, 22 transfer RNAs, and 13 mitochondrial proteins. It has a conserved gene order, gene orientation, and similar nucleotide composition indexes to other boars and pig breeds across the world. Notably, 232 nucleotide substitutions were detected when comparing this genome with 19 previously described Sus scrofa genomes. Partial cytochrome b gene analysis revealed the distribution of Asian haplotypes in the Vietnamese Central Highland Sus scrofa. A phylogenetic tree constructed from 32 Sus scrofa’s whole mitogenome sequences demonstrated the close relationship between Vietnamese wild boars and domestic pig breeds. The study provides additional insights into the genetics of Vietnamese wild boars, paving the way for future research in conservation, evolution, and breeding of Vietnamese wild boar populations.

The black-shanked douc langur Pygathrix nigripes is a critically endangered primate species endemic to Vietnam, facing severe threats from habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change. This study presents the complete mitochondrial genome of Pygathrix nigripes, comprising 16,535 bp, which includes 37 genes: 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs, and 2 ribosomal RNAs. Mitochondrial genomes are crucial for cellular energy metabolism, and understanding their genetic structure is vital for effective conservation strategies. Our analysis reveals significant genetic diversity and an A-T rich nucleotide composition, characteristic of primate mitogenomes, indicating adaptive evolutionary strategies. The study also highlights the importance of mitochondrial protein-coding genes in energy production and metabolic efficiency, which are critical for the species' survival. We observed variations in nucleotide composition and codon usage bias that reflect historical population dynamics and evolutionary pressures. Comparative genomic analyses with other Pygathrix species suggest shared evolutionary pathways, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation efforts. The findings underscore the necessity of genetic monitoring in conservation planning, particularly as Pygathrix nigripe faces ongoing environmental challenges. This research aims to enhance the global mapping of the Pygathrix nigripes mitogenome, offering valuable insights that can support the development of effective conservation strategies. These strategies are essential for ensuring the survival of this unique and critically endangered primate species.