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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:
1 to 2 meters in height
Distribution:
Green heath occurs in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces, from Piketberg in the Western Cape to Humansdorp in the Eastern Cape, including regions such as the Overberg, the Garden Route and the Cape Peninsula.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
75.76 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
15.37 kilobases
Assembly N50:
30 189.01 kilobases
Contig number:
2 067
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
0.46 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 75.7%, D: 23.1%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Erica sessiliflora
Green heath
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Importance:
Erica sessiliflora is significant for its unique sunbird pollination and its fire-adapted serotiny. Endemic to South Africa, it is valued as a garden shrub that attracts birds. Sequencing its genome improves biodiversity knowledge and supports conservation.
Date Published:
2026-03-17
Photo credit:
© P. Strauss
Flora
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