top of page
Group:
Reptile
Size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Distribution:
Endemic to the Republic of South Africa, Western Cape Province, ranging from Mossel Bay to near Saldanha Bay.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
69.13 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
5.32 kilobases
Assembly N50:
1032.76 kilobases
Contig number:
9 630
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
1.54 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [S: 98.4%, D: 1.2%]
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Importance:
This species is an important model for investigating limb reduction and genomic evolution in vertebrates. Within the genus Scelotes, it represents an intermediate limb development stage (forelimb digits = 0; hindlimb digits = 2), making it particularly valuable for comparative developmental and evolutionary studies. Its restricted distribution across distinct habitats and regions further enhances its utility as a model species for biogeographic and molecular ecology research.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr. Zhongning Zhao
University of Free State
Date Published:
2026-02-05
Photo credit:
© L. Kemp
Fauna
bottom of page