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Group:
Insect
Estimated genome size:
Its body is about 16-21 mm, and its probiscis (tongue) is 20-47mm long.
Size:
Its body is about 16-21 mm, and its probiscis (tongue) is 20-47mm long.
Distribution:
Its range is in south western Africa, specifically extreme southwestern Namibia through the western part of Northern Cape Province in South Africa (Namaqualand), and into the northwestern portion of the Western Cape Province. Key areas of high diversity include the Kamieskroon area of Namaqualand and the Pakhuis Mountains in the Western Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
34.81 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
1.09 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.56 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.0% [S: 94.7%, D: 4.2%]
Importance:
The Long-tongued fly is important ecologically. It is a keystone pollinator for a whole guild of long-tubed, vividly colored flowers. Through its specialized morphology and behavior, it facilitates efficient and species-specific pollination, supports plant biodiversity, and likely drives co-evolution in its plant partners.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Simon Van Noort
Iziko Museums of South Africa
Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
15 meters
Distribution:
The wild plum grows from the Eastern Cape northwards through KwaZulu-Natal, Swaziland, southern Mozambique, Limpopo and into Zimbabwe. This is a popular tree in frost-free areas.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
20.11 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
3.17 kilobases
Assembly N50:
1 454.18 kilobases
Contig number:
1 778
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
0.45 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.5% [S: 96.4%, D: 2.1%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Harpephyllum affrum
Wild plum
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Importance:
The tree’s fruit is edible and enjoyed by birds, animals, and humans. It is used for jams, jellies, and rosé wine. The bark is a traditional medicine for acne, eczema, and "bad blood," often used in skin washes. Burnt bark treats sprains and fractures, while it also serves as a dye. In the Eastern Cape, root decoctions are used for paralysis linked to sorcery
Sample Contributor contact details:
Thabang Makola
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Date Published:
2025-11-28
Photo credit:
© C. Peter
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