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Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
17 cm maximum (total body length).
Size:
17 cm maximum (total body length).
Distribution:
It is found in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Western Cape and Northern Cape
provinces of South Africa.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
89.36 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
6.51 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
4.53 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.6% [Single: 50.6%, Duplicated: 49%]
Importance:
The greater padloper tortoise is endemic to South Africa and contributes to ecosystem stability in the Karoo. As the largest species in the genus Homopus, it is of scientific interest for studies of limb development, as it is one of only two Homopus species with four digits on each foot.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Zhongning Zhao
University of the Free State
Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
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
Scelotes bipes
Silvery Dwarf Burrowing Skink
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
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