The complete mitochondrial genome of the ‘Extinct in the Wild’ Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii)

The Spix’s Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) is a Neotropical parrot species endemic to the Brazilian Caatinga. Lacking sexual dimorphism, it exhibits blue plumage with greyish tones and depends on dry and gallery forests. Classified as extinct in the wild by the IUCN since 2000, its global population has been reduced to approximately 168 individuals in captivity, although reintroduction strategies have already returned some individuals to their natural habitat. Population decline resulted from habitat loss and illegal trade. Forest conversion for agriculture and logging, along with capture for trafficking, severely impacted the species. National plans focus on species preservation, including genetic management to optimise reproduction and diversity. However, genetic diversity is limited, leading to inbreeding depression. Mitogenome studies are essential for identifying distinct lineages, supporting management programs, and understanding the species’ evolutionary history. In this study, we assembled, annotated, and described the mitochondrial genome of C. spixii using a DNA-Seq library. We also conducted phylogenetic analyses with representatives of the tribe Arini, using the 13 mitochondrial protein-coding genes (PCGs) and inferring relationships through the maximum likelihood (ML) method. With 16,991 bp, the mitogenome of C. spixii contains 13 PCGs, 22 tRNAs and two rRNAs. The analysis revealed closer evolutionary relationships with genera such as Ara, Primolius, and Orthopsittaca, corroborating previous studies based on morphological and molecular data. These results are fundamental for supporting and guiding conservation and management strategies for C. spixii, as well as for understanding the species evolution.