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Group:
Insect
Estimated genome size:
Its body is about 16-21 mm, and its probiscis (tongue) is 20-47mm long.
Size:
Its body is about 16-21 mm, and its probiscis (tongue) is 20-47mm long.
Distribution:
Its range is in south western Africa, specifically extreme southwestern Namibia through the western part of Northern Cape Province in South Africa (Namaqualand), and into the northwestern portion of the Western Cape Province. Key areas of high diversity include the Kamieskroon area of Namaqualand and the Pakhuis Mountains in the Western Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
34.81 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
1.09 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.56 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.0% [S: 94.7%, D: 4.2%]
Importance:
The Long-tongued fly is important ecologically. It is a keystone pollinator for a whole guild of long-tubed, vividly colored flowers. Through its specialized morphology and behavior, it facilitates efficient and species-specific pollination, supports plant biodiversity, and likely drives co-evolution in its plant partners.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Simon Van Noort
Iziko Museums of South Africa
Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
2-3 cm
Distribution:
Northern Cape province of South Africa, encompassing areas like Bushmanland and Northeastern Namaqualand.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
80.2 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
19.63 kilobases
Assembly N50:
27 198.08 kilobases
Contig number:
769
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
1.11 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.1% [S: 93.9%, D: 5.2%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Avonia quinaria
Red-flowered Avonia
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Importance:
This succulent it is an essential component of the diverse Karoo flora of South Africa. Its capacity to thrive in harsh, arid environments suggests a deep evolutionary history that merits further investigation. We can learn more about its adaptability and resilience from its genome.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Kedibone Masenya South African National Biodiversity Institute/ University of Johannesburg
Date Published:
2025-10-24
Photo credit:
© K. Schade
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