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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
0.3 meters in height.
Size:
0.3 meters in height.
Distribution:
Found in grassland habitats across Southern Africa.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
122.04 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
9.24 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
2.75 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 60.8%, D: 38.8%]
Importance:
Some populations of this species in the Barberton region of South Africa have evolved the ability to hyperaccumulate nickel, making this species ideal for a comparative genomics approach to understand the evolution of this extreme phenotype.
Group:
Eudicot
Genome size:
800 million DNA base pairs (0.8 Gigabases)
Size:
~ 0.5 - 2 meters (height)
Distribution:
Spekboom is found predominantly in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, particularly in the Karoo regions, where the semi-arid conditions are ideal for this resilient plant.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
75.56 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
22.81 kilobases
Assembly N50:
TBA
Contig number:
TBA
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
TBA
Genome Length:
0.45 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99%
BUSCO database:
TBA
Portulacaria afra
Spekboom

Importance:
Spekboom is known for its carbon sequestration, adaptability to harsh environments and soil binding properties that can help prevent erosion. It has low water requirements and edible leaves that are high in Vitamin C, enjoyed by wild animals (especially elephants) and humans alike.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Ernst Van Jaarsveld,
University of Western Cape | Babylonstoren
Date Published:
2023-03-01
Photo credit:
© D. Erasmus
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