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Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
17 cm maximum (total body length).
Size:
17 cm maximum (total body length).
Distribution:
It is found in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Western Cape and Northern Cape
provinces of South Africa.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
89.36 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
6.51 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
4.53 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [Single: 50.6%, Duplicated: 49%]
Importance:
The greater padloper tortoise is endemic to South Africa and contributes to ecosystem stability in the Karoo. As the largest species in the genus Homopus, it is of scientific interest for studies of limb development, as it is one of only two Homopus species with four digits on each foot.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Zhongning Zhao
University of the Free State
Group:
Bony fish
Estimated genome size:
Size:
The species length is up to 2 metres
Distribution:
Circumglobally found in tropical and sub-tropical waters. Found in all oceans, including the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
70.68 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
5.19 kilobases
Assembly N50:
6 633 kilobases
Contig number:
2 094
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
0.63 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.9% [S: 97.3%, D: 1.6%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Mola mola
Ocean sunfish
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Importance:
The Ocean sunfish is described as one of the heaviest bony fish in the world, with a sister species recorded as the heaviest bony fish. It forms part of the large iconic sunfish group seen by many water users. Furthermore, the species forms part of the mid-water trawling bycatch. Knowledge of this specific species is important for sustainable fisheries management and understanding the phylogeny in South African waters.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Nathalie Viljoen
Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation
Date Published:
2025-11-28
Photo credit:
© I. Sinclair
Fauna
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