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Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Distribution:
Endemic to the Republic of South Africa, occurring in Little Namaqualand from Port Nolloth to Clanwilliam.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
48.66 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
5.93 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
1.56 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 96.9%, D: 2.0%]
Importance:
It serves as an important model species for studying specific stages of limb development within the genus Scelotes, representing an intermediate limb development stage (forelimb digits = 0; hindlimb digits = 2), and for investigating the genomic evolution of vertebrates. It has a restricted distribution and occurs in distinct habitats and regions, making it an excellent model species for biogeographic and molecular ecology studies.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr. Zhongning Zhao
University of Free State
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
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