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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:
Monocot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
50cm with a
branched stem
Distribution:
Namaqualand southwards to the Cape Peninsula, and eastwards across the southern Cape as far as Swellendam.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
128.17 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
29.5 kilobases
Assembly N50:
1 744.42 kilobases
Contig number:
7 727
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
6.31 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 61.2%, D: 38.4%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Moraea fugax
Klipuintjie or Soetuintjie
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Importance:
An important traditional food source with potential as a wild crop, and crucial for understanding the variability within what is likely an undocumented species complex.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Donovan Kirkwood
Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden
Date Published:
2026-02-09
Photo credit:
© D. Kirkwood
Flora
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