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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
0.3 meters in height.
Size:
0.3 meters in height.
Distribution:
Found in grassland habitats across Southern Africa.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
122.04 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
9.24 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
2.75 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 60.8%, D: 38.8%]
Importance:
Some populations of this species in the Barberton region of South Africa have evolved the ability to hyperaccumulate nickel, making this species ideal for a comparative genomics approach to understand the evolution of this extreme phenotype.
Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
Averages between 1.5 and 2 m in height.
Distribution:
This species historically occurred on the Cape Flats of the Cape Peninsula from the Black River to Zeekoeivlei. It has been reintroduced at three sites: Rondevlei between 2002 and 2005, Kenilworth Racecourse in 2006 and Tokai park in 2004.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
62.29 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
7.99 kilobases
Assembly N50:
210.03 kilobases
Contig number:
6 951
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
0.4 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 85.5%, D: 14.1%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Erica verticillata
Whorl heath
Importance:
Erica verticillata is a critically endangered fynbos species once extinct in the wild and now reintroduced through conservation efforts. As part of the unique Cape Floristic Region, it plays a role in sustaining pollinators and ecosystem balance. Sequencing its genome can uncover genetic traits linked to its adaptability, inform restoration strategies, and enhance our understanding of plant resilience in fire-prone, nutrient poor habitats.
Date Published:
2025-08-27
Photo credit:
© B. du Preez
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