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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:
0.5 to 3.5 meters
Distribution:
Distributed from Bainskloof to Riversdale, Western Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
75.31 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.1 kilobases
Assembly N50:
6 633.75 kilobases
Contig number:
957
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
1.95 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.3% [S: 6.6%, D: 92.7%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Cyclopia maculata
Honeybush
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Importance:
Cyclopia maculata is endemic to South Africa and has historically been used by the Khoi-San for its medicinal properties. Today, it is popular as a herbal infusion and consumed locally as a beverage. This species is an important source of income in rural areas especially the Overberg region. Research has identified various health properties and benefits, but its full medicinal value is still largely underutilised.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Cecilia Bester
Agricultural Research Council
Date Published:
2025-10-28
Photo credit:
© M. Joubert
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