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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Up to 18 m tall
Size:
Up to 18 m tall
Distribution:
The species is native to large parts of sub-Saharan Africa (including, but not limited to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe). In South Africa, it is found in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, North West and some parts of Northern and Eastern Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
86.86 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
17.18 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.39 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 97.4%, D: 1.4%]
Importance:
Sclerocarya birrea is an economically and culturally important African tree, valued for products such as Amarula Cream Liqueur, cosmetic oil, and its traditional medicinal uses, while also supporting rural livelihoods. Its drought tolerant and deep rooting system make it important in agroforestry and ecosystem resilience. Sequencing its genome will improve understanding of its biology, support conservation and breeding efforts, and enhance sustainable commercial development.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Prof. Eshchar Mizrachi
University of Pretoria
Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
Size:
Maximum 13 cm
Distribution:
This species occurs exclusively on the west coast of South Africa, found only within the Succulent Karoo Biome, one of the world’s recognised biodiversity hotspots.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
47.2 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
6.32 kilobases
Assembly N50:
450.04 kilobases
Contig number:
16 117
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
TBA
Genome Length:
2.2 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
97.3% [S: 95.3%, D: 2.3%]
BUSCO database:
TBA
Psammobates tentorius trimeni
Namaqualand tent tortoise
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Importance:
The Namaqualand tent tortoise is a vibrant and highly polymorphic seed disperser. Widely regarded as the most colourful tortoise in the world, it has a more restricted range than other tent tortoise species. Listed as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN, it faces pressures from habitat loss, the illegal pet trade, and increasing aridity. No genomic studies have been conducted on any tortoise species in Africa or the Southern Hemisphere.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr Zhongning Zhao
University of the Free State
Date Published:
2025-06-23
Photo credit:
© Zhongning Zhao
Fauna
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