We have isolated 4 cDNA clones encoding the full-length sequence of the eukaryotic ribosomal protein RL44 from upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Sequencing of these clones resulted in the classification of 2 subfamilies of RL44; these subfamilies had coding regions (315 bp) which were 92% identical. RL44-1 (454 bp) and RL44-2 (485 bp) constitute subfamily 1, whereas RL44-3 (913 bp) and RL44-5 (541 bp) constitute subfamily 2. The differences in nucleotide sequences, however, occurred only at third codon positions and the resulting amino acid sequences of the two RL44 subfamilies were identical. The ORF encoded a protein of 105 residues with a Mr = 12029. A bipartite nuclear targeting sequence was identified from residues 29 to 43.