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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:
Bird
Estimated genome size:
Size:
1 - 1.2 m tall,
wingspan 1.8 - 2.1 m
Distribution:
Endemic to southern Africa, with the main range in South Africa’s grasslands and Karoo, a small population in Etosha National Park (Namibia), and sporadic sightings in Botswana.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
66.72 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
7.32 kilobases
Assembly N50:
10 888.1 kilobases
Contig number:
2 170
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
1.22 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
100.0% [S: 98.8%, D: 1.2%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Anthropoides paradiseus
Blue Crane
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Importance:
The Blue Crane, South Africa’s national bird, is an important part of the country’s rich avian diversity and holds cultural significance. Although the species has adapted to human-altered landscapes such as urban areas and agricultural fields, it remains vulnerable to habitat loss, poisoning, and collisions with power lines.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Prof. Paulette Bloomer
University of Pretoria
Date Published:
2026-02-04
Photo credit:
© M. Valentini
Fauna
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