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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:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
0.3 - 0.5 m
Distribution:
This species is endemic and widespread across western South Africa, from the Richtersveld to Clanwilliam.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
66.57 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
16.39 kilobases
Assembly N50:
48 987.56 kilobases
Contig number:
1 473
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
0.57 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.8% [S: 89.9%, D: 9.9%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Pelargonium echinatum
Prickly-stemmed
pelargonium
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Importance:
Prickly-stemmed pelargonium is among the most beautiful winterflowering pelargoniums. Traditionally, South African tribes have used Pelargonium species to treat ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, wounds, fever, colds, sore throats, and urinary issues, to name a few. The essential oil from Pelargonium species is highly valued for its rose like fragrance with minty notes, widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy. Known for its calming and balancing properties, it helps relieve anxiety, fatigue, and depression, while also benefiting skin care and respiratory health.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Mr Thabang Makola
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Date Published:
2025-12-01
Photo credit:
© T. Makola
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