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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:
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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