Step 1: Understand codons.
An initial codon (start codon) is a specific sequence in mRNA that signals the start of translation. The most common start codon is AUG, which codes for methionine.
Step 2: Review the options.
- UGA is a stop codon, not a start codon.
- GUA is a codon for valine but is not the start codon.
- AUG is the correct start codon, coding for methionine.
- "All of these" is incorrect because only AUG is the start codon.
Step 3: Conclude.
The correct initial codon is AUG, making option (C) the correct answer.
Final Answer:
\[
\boxed{\text{AUG}}
\]