Structural characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the chloroplast genome of <i>Cryptocoryne crispatula</i> var. balansae (gagnep.) N. Jacobsen 1991

<i>Cryptocoryne</i> is a popular ornamental aquatic plant for aquarists, although only six species are found in China. Destruction of the natural habitats of <i>Cryptocoryne</i> for human activities has led to a decline in its numbers. In this report, we sequenced and annotated the <i>Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae</i> chloroplast genome for the first time. Results showed that the length of the chloroplast genome was 182,935 bp and the GC content was 34%. The chloroplast genome encoded 137 genes, including 92 encoded protein genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis supported the the monophyletic nature of the genus and indicated that it was the first species to be differentiated in the chloroplast genome of <i>Cryptocoryne</i> and formed a separate branch. These findings offer valuable genomic resources for comparative studies in <i>Cryptocoryne</i> and Araceae, thereby aiding genetic diversity and phylogenetic analyses.