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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
1 - 1.5 m
Size:
1 - 1.5 m
Distribution:
Central Richtersveld Mountain Shrubland
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
158.88 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
19.77 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
5.92 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 87.8%, D: 11.8%]
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
Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
1 m
Distribution:
Euphorbia radyeri (syn. Euphorbia caerulescens), grows on stony slopes and flats among arid scrub and larger bushes from Calitzdorp to Klipplaat and Jansenville.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
202.22 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
13.44 kilobases
Assembly N50:
12 527.56 kilobases
Contig number:
2 263
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
5.77 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.5% [S: 7.5%, D: 92.0%]
BUSCO database:
Hifiasm
Euphorbia radyeri
Blounoorsdoring
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Importance:
The blounoorsdoring , blue euphorbia in English, is a drought-tolerant succulent valued in ornamental horticulture for water wise gardens. Its stems can be used as emergency livestock fodder after the latex has dried to reduce toxicity. The species itself is not currently threatened, but many southern African Euphorbia species face pressure from illegal collection and habitat loss, underscoring the importance of ecological research and conservation planning.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Mr Thabang Makola
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Date Published:
2026-02-05
Photo credit:
© T. Makola
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