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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:

Bony fish

Genome size:

1 560 million DNA base pairs (1.56 Gigabases)

Size:

Maximum length 50 cm

Distribution:

Endemic to southern Africa, Labeo capensis is primarily found in the Orange-Vaal River system.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

13.8 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

5.49 kilobases

Assembly N50:

TBA

Contig number:

TBA

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Assembler used:

TBA

Genome Length:

1.1 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

98.8% [S: 94.9%, D: 3.9%]

BUSCO database:

TBA

Labeo capensis

Orange river mudfish

Species Card Details

Importance:

The Orange river mudfish is a freshwater species endemic to southern Africa. Human activities, such as inter-basin water transfers, have facilitated hybridisation with Moggel (Labeo umbratus). Genomic data are essential to clarify its phylogenetic placement and assess the extent of hybridisation. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Labeo capensis is an occasional angling species, and it is also used in ecological and physiological research. Additionally, it holds potential as a commercial species in large impoundments.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Dr Gwynneth Matcher
South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity

Date Published:

2025-03-12

Awaiting DOI

Photo credit:

© R. Bills

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