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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:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
0.5 to 3 m
Distribution:
Widely distributed along the coastal mountain ranges (Tsitsikamma, Outeniqua and Langeberg Mountains) that are part of the Eastern and Western Cape Provinces. It grows mainly on the cooler southern slopes of the mountains.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
156.16 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
9.5 kilobases
Assembly N50:
34 366.2 kilobases
Contig number:
1852
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
4.33 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.7 % [S: 0.2 %, D: 99.5%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Cyclopia subternata
Honeybush
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Importance:
Honeybush is endemic to South Africa and has historically been used by the Khoi-San for its medicinal properties. Today, it is popular as an herbal infusion and consumed worldwide as a hot or cold beverage. This species is an important source of income in rural areas and is exported to more than 25 countries worldwide. Research has identified various health properties and benefits, but its full medicinal value remains largely unexploited.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Cecilia Bester
Agricultural Research Council
Date Published:
20205-09-22
Photo credit:
© C. Bester
Flora
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