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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:
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 white lion is naturally restricted to the Timbavati Greater Kruger region of northeastern South Africa, making it one of the most geographically localised large-mammal colour variants in the world.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
98.7 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
11.72 kilobases
Assembly N50:
77 724.15 kilobases
Contig number:
286
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
2.47 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 93.3%, D: 5.5%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Panthera leo
White lion (African lion)
Importance:
Lions are classified as vulnerable. The white lion is a naturally occurring colour variant caused by a recessive gene (leucism), not albinism. They are extremely rare, and their genomes have never been sequenced. Both the tawny and white lions are an important part of Kruger National Park's natural biodiversity.
Date Published:
2026-04-22
Photo credit:
© P. Bakker
Fauna
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