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Group:

Reptile

Estimated genome size:

17 cm maximum (total body length).

Size:

17 cm maximum (total body length).

Distribution:

It is found in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Western Cape and Northern Cape
provinces of South Africa.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

89.36 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

6.51 kilobases

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Genome Length:

4.53 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

99.6% [Single: 50.6%, Duplicated: 49%]

Importance:

The greater padloper tortoise is endemic to South Africa and contributes to ecosystem stability in the Karoo. As the largest species in the genus Homopus, it is of scientific interest for studies of limb development, as it is one of only two Homopus species with four digits on each foot.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Zhongning Zhao
University of the Free State

Group:

Bony fish

Estimated genome size:

Size:

13.7 cm SL (male)

Distribution:

The Clanwilliam catfish is endemic to the Olifants Doring River System in the Western Cape, South Africa.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

46.34 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

4.9 kilobases

Assembly N50:

2 611.29 kilobases

Contig number:

3 103

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Assembler used:

Flye

Genome Length:

0.73 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

99.2% [S: 96.1%, D: 3.1%]

BUSCO database:

eukaryota

Austroglanis gilli

Clanwilliam catfish

Species Card Details

Importance:

This small freshwater catfish is found in only one river system in the world. It is listed by the IUCN as Near Threatened. It grows slowly, reaching maturity at about three years, and is vulnerable to changes in its environment.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Dr Gwynneth Matcher
South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity

Date Published:

2025-10-14

Photo credit:

© R. van der Walt

Fauna

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