# The complete chloroplast genome sequence of the endangered species: Ephedra rhytidosperma (Ephedraceae): insights into genome features and evolutionary relationships

## TL;DR

This paper presents the full chloroplast genome of Ephedra rhytidosperma, an endangered plant, and explores its genetic structure and evolutionary links to other Ephedra species.

## Contribution

The first complete chloroplast genome assembly for Ephedra rhytidosperma, providing insights into its genome features and phylogenetic relationships.

## Key findings

- The chloroplast genome is 109,545 bp long with a GC content of 36.8% and encodes 118 complete genes.
- Phylogenetic analysis shows E. rhytidosperma and six other Ephedra species form a monophyletic group.
- The genome provides a foundation for future genetic and genomic studies in the Ephedra genus.

## Abstract

Ephedra rhytidosperma belongs to the genus Ephedra (Ephedraceae) and plays a significant role in desertification control. In this study, we assembled the complete chloroplast genome of E. rhytidosperma for the first time, revealing a typical quadripartite structure. The chloroplast genome was 109,545 base pair (bp) long with a GC content of 36.8%, encoding 118 complete genes. Phylogenetic reconstruction resolved E. rhytidosperma, E. minuta, E. likiangensis, E. equisetina, Ephedra gerardiana, E. fedtschenkoae, and E. monosperma formed a monophyletic group, indicating their close relationship. The chloroplast genome of E. rhytidosperma establishes a good foundation for further genetic and genomic studies of the Ephedra.