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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:
Monocot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
25 - 30 cm
Distribution:
The Yellow Star occurs in open grassland and woodland and is widespread in the eastern summer rainfall provinces of South Africa. It also occurs in Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
201.63 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
16.05 kilobases
Assembly N50:
47 511.29 kilobases
Contig number:
1 489
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
4.96 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.8% [S: 0.5%, D: 99.3%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Hypoxis hemerocallidea
Yellow Star
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Importance:
The species is a widely used medicinal plant in South Africa, well known for its immune-boosting properties. The rootstock is used to treat tuberculosis, urinary tract infections, prostate issues, rheumatoid arthritis and depression. Key compounds include hypoxoside, which converts to rooperol and sitosterol. However, raw forms contain toxic compounds. The species is heavily harvested, with unsustainable trade and habitat loss threatening the wild population. Conservation efforts are needed to protect this valuable species.
Date Published:
2025-10-28
Photo credit:
© A. Götze
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