Mitochondrial Genome Analysis of Babesia ovis (Apicomplexa: Babesiidae) Endemic in Sheep in Türkiye

This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of the mitochondrial genome of <i>Babesia ovis</i>, a significant pathogen in ovine babesiosis in Türkiye. The <i>B. ovis</i> mitochondrial genome is a linear monomeric molecule of 6015 bp with an A + T content of 70.5%, featuring terminal inverted repeats (TIRs) at both ends. It encodes three essential proteins (Cox1, Cox3, and Cob) and six fragments of <i>large subunit rRNA</i> genes. Comparative analysis revealed high sequence identity with <i>Babesia</i> sp. Xinjiang (87.5%) and <i>Babesia</i> sp. Dunhuang (87.5%), suggesting a close evolutionary relationship. The study highlights the conservation of mitochondrial gene content across <i>Babesia</i> and <i>Theileria</i> species, emphasizing their utility in phylogenetic studies. The findings also suggest that TIR variability plays a role in mitochondrial genome size differences, influencing species-specific adaptations. This research provides valuable insights into the evolution and functional adaptations of <i>B. ovis</i> and underscores the potential of mitochondrial genomic data in enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for babesiosis. Further exploration of mitochondrial genomes in <i>Babesia</i> species is essential for understanding their biology and developing effective control measures.