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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:
9-12 m
Distribution:
It is a subtropical tree that occurs in the warm and frost-free to light frost coastal regions of the Eastern Cape and northern KwaZulu Natal, but it is a popular statement tree due to its beautiful canopy and flowers and is now wide-spread throughout South Africa. It has been introduced internationally as well.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
42.15 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
28.87 kilobases
Assembly N50:
33,723.14 kilobases
Contig number:
322
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
0.74 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.8% [S: 85.4%, D: 14.4%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Erythrina afra
Coastal Coral Tree
Importance:
The Coastal Coral Tree is cherished for its warm red to burnt-orange flowers, blooming from winter to spring. Popular for its easy cultivation and long flowering period, it is an ideal garden plant, admired by botanists, horticulturists, and nature lovers. With a round, spreading canopy and light green foliage, it thrives in coastal and windy conditions. The tree attracts birds with its nectar and fruit and is used in traditional medicine for anxiety, inflammation, wound healing, and infections.
Date Published:
2026-02-05
Photo credit:
© W. Fraser
Flora
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