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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Up to 18 m tall
Size:
Up to 18 m tall
Distribution:
The species is native to large parts of sub-Saharan Africa (including, but not limited to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe). In South Africa, it is found in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, North West and some parts of Northern and Eastern Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
86.86 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
17.18 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.39 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 97.4%, D: 1.4%]
Importance:
Sclerocarya birrea is an economically and culturally important African tree, valued for products such as Amarula Cream Liqueur, cosmetic oil, and its traditional medicinal uses, while also supporting rural livelihoods. Its drought tolerant and deep rooting system make it important in agroforestry and ecosystem resilience. Sequencing its genome will improve understanding of its biology, support conservation and breeding efforts, and enhance sustainable commercial development.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Prof. Eshchar Mizrachi
University of Pretoria
Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
Size:
18-25 cm (total body length)
Distribution:
Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Mozambique, southern Angola, Zambia, Eswatini
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
71.28 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
3.17 kilobases
Assembly N50:
1114.67 kilobases
Contig number:
10 320
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
1.5 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 98.4%, D: 1.2%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Agama aculeata
Ground Agama
Importance:
Agama aculeata is a widespread, common ground agama in southern Africa that helps control insects and thrives in natural and disturbed habitats. Sequencing its genome would resolve taxonomic uncertainty within the species complex, uncover genetics of coloration, thermal tolerance and urban adaptation, improve agama phylogeny, and aid conservation and monitoring.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Zhongning Zhao
University of the Free State
Date Published:
2026-05-20
Photo credit:
© L. Kemp
Fauna
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