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Group:

Reptile

Estimated genome size:

10 - 20 cm (total body length)

Size:

10 - 20 cm (total body length)

Distribution:

Endemic to the Republic of South Africa, occurring in Little Namaqualand from Port Nolloth to Clanwilliam.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

48.66 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

5.93 kilobases

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Genome Length:

1.56 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

98.8% [S: 96.9%, D: 2.0%]

Importance:

It serves as an important model species for studying specific stages of limb development within the genus Scelotes, representing an intermediate limb development stage (forelimb digits = 0; hindlimb digits = 2), and for investigating the genomic evolution of vertebrates. It has a restricted distribution and occurs in distinct habitats and regions, making it an excellent model species for biogeographic and molecular ecology studies.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Dr. Zhongning Zhao
University of Free State

Group:

Bony fish

Estimated genome size:

Size:

80 cm Total Length

Distribution:

This species is found in the Southeast Atlantic and Western Indian Ocean. Its range includes South Africa's Western and Eastern Cape coasts, extending along East Africa, the Persian Gulf, Socotra, the Seychelles, and Madagascar, reaching as far as the northwest coast of India.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

37.78 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

5.82 kilobases

Assembly N50:

802.31 kilobases

Contig number:

3 309

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Assembler used:

TBA

Genome Length:

0.69 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

98.4% [S: 95.3%, D: 3.1%]

BUSCO database:

TBA

Pomadasys commersonnii

Spotted Grunter

Species Card Details

Importance:

The Spotted Grunter is a high-value species targeted by commercial fisheries. In South Africa, commercial fishing of this species is prohibited, with only recreational angling permitted. Due to its desirable traits, the Spotted Grunter also shows strong potential for development within the aquaculture industry.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Dr Gwynneth Matcher
South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity

Date Published:

2025-07-23

Photo credit:

© Craig Peter

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