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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:
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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