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Group:
Moncot
Estimated genome size:
50 to 100 cm in height
Size:
50 to 100 cm in height
Distribution:
Endemic to South Africa, the Miracle Clivia Lily is known to occur in the Oorlogskloof area near the town of Nieuwoudtville in the Northern Cape. The species has only been recorded in the Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve, where two subpopulations are found on the Bokkeveldberge plateau.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
426.45 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.38 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
15.12 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.3% [S: 69.9%, D: 29.4%]
Importance:
Clivia mirabilis survives in an unusually arid environment compared with other Clivia species, which is why it is known as the “miracle lily”. Its distinctive hardiness has made it desirable for breeders seeking to improve ornamental Clivia lines. However, heavy illegal poaching has removed thousands of plants from the wild. This leaves the remaining population dangerously small and at risk of extinction in its natural habitat.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Felix Middleton
Clivia Society of South Africa
Group:
Echinoderm
Estimated genome size:
Size:
20 mm
Distribution:
This species is distributed along the South African coast from the west coast to KwaZulu-Natal.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
61.29 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
2.34 kilobases
Assembly N50:
110 kilobases
Contig number:
17 444
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
0.33 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.0% [S: 94.1%, D: 3.9%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Parvulastra exigua
Dwarf cushion star
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Importance:
The dwarf cushion star is a widespread and ecologically significant intertidal species in South Africa. It contributes to biodiversity by maintaining balance in rocky shore ecosystems and serving as prey and grazer. Sequencing its genome will provide insights into adaptation to harsh intertidal conditions, population connectivity, and resilience to environmental change, supporting conservation and enhancing understanding of echinoderm evolution within South Africa's unique marine biodiversity.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Suzanne Redelinghuys
Rhodes University &
South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity
Date Published:
2025-12-01
Photo credit:
© S. Redelinghuys
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