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Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Distribution:
Endemic to the Republic of South Africa, occurring in Little Namaqualand from Port Nolloth to Clanwilliam.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
48.66 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
5.93 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
1.56 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 96.9%, D: 2.0%]
Importance:
It serves as an important model species for studying specific stages of limb development within the genus Scelotes, representing an intermediate limb development stage (forelimb digits = 0; hindlimb digits = 2), and for investigating the genomic evolution of vertebrates. It has a restricted distribution and occurs in distinct habitats and regions, making it an excellent model species for biogeographic and molecular ecology studies.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr. Zhongning Zhao
University of 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
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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
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