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Group:

Reptile

Estimated genome size:

17 cm maximum (total body length).

Size:

17 cm maximum (total body length).

Distribution:

It is found in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Western Cape and Northern Cape
provinces of South Africa.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

89.36 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

6.51 kilobases

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Genome Length:

4.53 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

99.6% [Single: 50.6%, Duplicated: 49%]

Importance:

The greater padloper tortoise is endemic to South Africa and contributes to ecosystem stability in the Karoo. As the largest species in the genus Homopus, it is of scientific interest for studies of limb development, as it is one of only two Homopus species with four digits on each foot.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Zhongning Zhao
University of the Free State

Group:

Eudicot

Genome size:

0.5 - 8 m (height)

Size:

0.5 - 8 m (height)

Distribution:

The Glossy Bottlebrush is endemic to South Africa, occurring in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. It typically grows on rocky slopes, cliff faces, and open grassland in montane habitats.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

31.02 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

10.31 kilobases

Assembly N50:

3.295 kilobases

Contig number:

307

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Assembler used:

TBA

Genome Length:

0.18 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

99.6% [S: 85.9%, D: 13.7%]

BUSCO database:

TBA

Greyia sutherlandii

Glossy Bottlebrush

Species Card Details

Importance:

The bottlebrush, an endemic plant of montane regions, plays a key role in ecosystem services. Rich in flavonoids, it shows promising antityrosinase activity with potential medicinal benefits for skin conditions. Its striking flowers add horticultural appeal, making it both a functional and ornamental asset.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Prof. Dave Berger
University of Pretoria

Date Published:

2025-07-23

Photo credit:

© D. Berger

Flora

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