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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
1.5 m
Size:
1.5 m
Distribution:
Maiden's Quiver Tree is restricted to desert mountainsides and arid ravines in South Africa (Richtersveld of the Northern Cape) and southern Namibia. Its distribution is concentrated within the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
379.51 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.36 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
11.21 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.9% [S: 92.7%, D: 6.8%]
Importance:
Aloidendron ramosissimum is threatened by plant theft, overgrazing, and ongoing habitat degradation. Its slow growth and low resilience mean disturbances, drought, and increased grazing pressure have long-term impacts, especially on juvenile survival. Climate change and possible mining activities are expected to further reduce its suitable habitat.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Thabang Makola
South African Biodiversity Institute
Group:
Insect
Estimated genome size:
Size:
6-7 mm long
Distribution:
Eastern Cape in the area near Gqeberha and Kariega.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
29.49 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
4.85 kilobases
Assembly N50:
21 039 kilobases
Contig number:
507
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
0.28 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 99.0%, D: 0.6%]
BUSCO database:
insecta
Porthetes sp. nov.
(ex Encephalartos horridus)
Cycad pollination weevil
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Importance:
Porthetes beetles are pollinators of Encephalartos cycads. Both the cycads and weevils have a high extinction risk. Genome sequencing provides a basis for further molecular studies to understand host specificity and options for conserving and recovering pollinator interactions.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Prof. John Donaldson
Wild Cycad Conservancy; University of Pretoria
Date Published:
2025-12-01
Photo credit:
© Wild Cycad Conservancy
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