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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
1.5 m
Size:
1.5 m
Distribution:
Maiden's Quiver Tree is restricted to desert mountainsides and arid ravines in South Africa (Richtersveld of the Northern Cape) and southern Namibia. Its distribution is concentrated within the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
379.51 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.36 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
11.21 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.9% [S: 92.7%, D: 6.8%]
Importance:
Aloidendron ramosissimum is threatened by plant theft, overgrazing, and ongoing habitat degradation. Its slow growth and low resilience mean disturbances, drought, and increased grazing pressure have long-term impacts, especially on juvenile survival. Climate change and possible mining activities are expected to further reduce its suitable habitat.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Thabang Makola
South African Biodiversity Institute
Group:
Insect
Estimated genome size:
Size:
4 mm
Distribution:
Exclusive to the Western Cape province.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
48.91 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
7.69 kilobases
Assembly N50:
4 195.23 kilobases
Contig number:
1 636
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
1.33 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.9% [S: 97.7%, D: 2.2%]
BUSCO database:
insecta
Amitermes hastatus
Black mound termite
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Importance:
Amitermes hastatus plays a significant role in South African biodiversity as a key decomposer in the fynbos biome, one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. Sequencing the genome of this species important because it can: ① Illuminate genetic adaptations to nutrient-poor, fire adapted environments; ② Provide insight into the evolution of sociality in termites within an ecologically unique context; ③ Support comparative genomics across termite lineages, particularly within the diverse and underrepresented southern African termite fauna; ④ Enhance understanding of species responses to climate change and habitat transformation in fynbos systems.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Barbara van Asch
Stellenbosch University, Genetics Department
Date Published:
2025-10-24
Photo credit:
© D. Gergonne
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