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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:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
0.9 – 1 m in height
Distribution:
This species occurs in the Western Cape, from the Kogelberg and Hottentots Holland Mountains to the Worcester and Slanghoek Mountains, extending eastwards to the Caledon Zwartberg and Babylonstoren near Hermanus, at altitudes from near sea level to approximately 1 300 m.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
45.6 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.53 kilobases
Assembly N50:
48 492.12 kilobases
Contig number:
1 327
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
1.45 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.3% [S: 7.2%, D: 91.1%]
BUSCO database:
insecta
Brunia microphylla
Common Cedar Blacktips
Importance:
Brunia microphylla is the most widespread species in the subgenus Raspalia,
occurring in lower-altitude areas of the Western Cape fynbos, often in large populations. Its broad distribution makes it a useful representative for exploring relationships within the Bruniaceae.
Date Published:
2026-06-08
Photo credit:
© N.T. Moolman
Flora
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