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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:
Insect
Estimated genome size:
Size:
About 40 mm long, with a wingspan of roughly 40 mm.
Distribution:
It has a wide, primarily paleotropical and subtropical distribution, largely determined by the presence of its host plants in the Amaryllidaceae family.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
40.81 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
7.92 kilobases
Assembly N50:
15 758.47 kilobases
Contig number:
2 502
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
0.56 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.0% [S: 96.0%, D: 3.1%]
BUSCO database:
insecta
Brithys crini pancratia
Lily borer
Importance:
It is an indigenous insect adapted to feeding on local deciduous species, forming a natural part of the ecosystem. By damaging the rhizome’s main growth point, its larvae trigger the plant to produce multiple smaller offsets, leading to clumping.
Date Published:
2026-05-07
Photo credit:
© J van Wyk
Fauna
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