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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:
2 m
Distribution:
Endemic to South Africa, only known to the Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces. It occurs in the Lydenburg District, Sekhukhuneland, the Steelpoort River Valley and to the Olifants River.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
84.83 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
17.59 kilobases
Assembly N50:
24 098.04 kilobases
Contig number:
658
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
2.58 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.8% [S: 78.4%, D: 21.4%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Euphorbia sekukuniensis
Sekhukhune candelabra tree
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Importance:
The Sekhukhune candelabra tree is a popular ornamental plant. It has a restricted distribution in isolated populations on shallow norite soils and is threatened by mining activities. In southern Africa, the Euphorbiaceae family faces increasing pressure from illegal collection and habitat loss. Over 30 species are listed as threatened and many others are data-deficient or unevaluated, highlighting the need for urgent conservation action.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Mr Thabang Makola
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Date Published:
2026-02-09
Photo credit:
© T. Makola
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