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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:
0.1 - 0.2 m (height)
Distribution:
South Africa: Western Cape and Eastern Cape
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
114.5 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
20.54 kilobases
Assembly N50:
457.91 kilobases
Contig number:
22 796
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
6.43 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.5% [S: 0.7%, D: 98.8%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Gazania ciliaris
Treasure Flower
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Importance:
Gazania is a floristically important indigenous genus distributed throughout South Africa but with its centre of diversity in the Cape floristic region. Gazania hybrids are globally important in horticulture. Gazania ciliaris is a Cape-endemic species and diverged early during diversification of the genus. Thus, it is crucial for exploring the genetic diversity, evolution, cytology and biogeography of Gazania.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Robert James McKenzie
University of the Free State
Date Published:
2025-10-28
Photo credit:
© R. McKenzie
Flora
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