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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 - 1.5 m
Distribution:
Central Richtersveld Mountain Shrubland
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
158.88 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
19.77 kilobases
Assembly N50:
5 885.74 kilobases
Contig number:
3 075
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
5.92 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 87.8%, D: 11.8%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Euphorbia dregeana
Bergmelkbos
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Importance:
The Euphorbiaceae family is facing increasing threats in southern Africa due to poaching for illegal trade, with over 30 species currently classified as threatened and another 30 species either lacking sufficient data or yet to be evaluated. This highlights the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to prevent further decline and avert critical risk.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Mr Thabang Makola
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Date Published:
2026-02-011
Photo credit:
© T. Makola
Flora
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