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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:
Mammal
Estimated genome size:
Size:
Males:
Length: 2.5-3.3 m
Shoulder Height: 1.2 m
Mass: 150-225 kg
Females:
Length: 2.3-2.7 m
Shoulder Height: 1.0 m
Mass: 110-152 kg
Distribution:
The African lion is largely restricted to eastern and southern Africa, with scattered and declining populations elsewhere. Its distribution is far more limited than in the past. They mainly inhabit savannas and grasslands, open woodlands, and semi arid regions.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
115.83 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
10 kilobases
Assembly N50:
108 499.01 kilobases
Contig number:
679
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
2.45 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
100% [S: 94.5%, D: 5.5%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Panthera leo
Tawny lion (African lion)
Importance:
Lions are classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. They face threats such as habitat loss and human-lion conflicts. There are no previous annotated African lion genomes available.
Date Published:
2026-04-22
Photo credit:
© A. Pollard
Fauna
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