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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:
Up to 60 cm in height
Distribution:
Endemic to the Western Cape Province of South Africa.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
110.26 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
10.2 kilobases
Assembly N50:
36 120.14 kilobases
Contig number:
6 129
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
0.95 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.8% [S: 97.2%, D: 2.6%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Indigofera hamulosa
Flummoxed Indigo
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Importance:
This species is native to the Cape provinces. Although little has been published specifically on Indigofera hamulosa, species in this genus are used in traditional medicine to treat gastrointestinal, inflammatory, skin, respiratory, and infectious conditions. The genus is also used as a source of fabric dye as well as tannins for leather tanning, a soil stabiliser, and firewood, highlighting its potential commercial value in South Africa.
Date Published:
2026-03-17
Photo credit:
© P. Strauss
Flora
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