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Group:
Insect
Estimated genome size:
Its body is about 16-21 mm, and its probiscis (tongue) is 20-47mm long.
Size:
Its body is about 16-21 mm, and its probiscis (tongue) is 20-47mm long.
Distribution:
Its range is in south western Africa, specifically extreme southwestern Namibia through the western part of Northern Cape Province in South Africa (Namaqualand), and into the northwestern portion of the Western Cape Province. Key areas of high diversity include the Kamieskroon area of Namaqualand and the Pakhuis Mountains in the Western Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
34.81 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
1.09 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.56 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.0% [S: 94.7%, D: 4.2%]
Importance:
The Long-tongued fly is important ecologically. It is a keystone pollinator for a whole guild of long-tubed, vividly colored flowers. Through its specialized morphology and behavior, it facilitates efficient and species-specific pollination, supports plant biodiversity, and likely drives co-evolution in its plant partners.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Simon Van Noort
Iziko Museums 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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