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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:

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

Species Card Details

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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