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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:
Up to 30 to 60 cm in height
Distribution:
Skaapbossie/sheep bush is widespread throughout South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. In South Africa, it is found in different biomes and vegetation types, including Succulent Karoo, Nama Karoo, Fynbos and Renosterveld. Preferred habitats are loamy or sandy ridges and plains within arid and semi -arid areas between 900-1 700 m above sea level.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
288 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
7.39 kilobases
Assembly N50:
2 086.75 kilobases
Contig number:
9 599
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
10.41 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.7% [S: 0.2%, D: 99.5%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Pentzia incana
Skaapbossie
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Importance:
This species is an important pasture plant in the Karoo. The aromatic compounds in its leaves are thought to contribute to the distinctive flavour of Karoo lamb. It has a unique shallow root system. Its ability to anchor and propagate itself through the root system results in the formation of a dense root mass that binds the soil, reducing erosion. (https://pza.sanbi.org/pe tzia-incana).
Date Published:
2025-08-27
Photo credit:
© G. Malan
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