Complete mitochondrial genome and phylogenetic analysis of the palecheek parrotfish <i>Chlorurus japanensis</i> (Bloch, 1789)

We report the first complete mitochondrial genome of the palecheek parrotfish, <i>Chlorurus japanensis</i>. The 16,694 bp circular genome contains the standard vertebrate gene complement: 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs, two ribosomal RNAs, and one non-coding control region (D-loop). As is typical, most genes are located on the H-strand, with only the <i>nd6</i> gene and eight tRNAs encoded on the L-strand. A tRNA gene rearrangement pattern conserved among parrotfishes was also identified. Phylogenetic analysis placed <i>C. japanensis</i> within the tribe Scarini, where it formed a well-supported clade with other <i>Chlorurus</i> species. This phylogenetic relationship reflects their shared ecological specialization in coral reef environments.