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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 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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