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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:
10-20 cm (total body length)
Distribution:
Endemic to southern Africa, including South Africa (Limpopo River Valley, northern Limpopo Province), southern Zimbabwe, and Botswana.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
26.19 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
3.27 kilobases
Assembly N50:
24.88 kilobases
Contig number:
65 311
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
1.22 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
<80%
BUSCO database:
eukaryota
Scelotes limpopoensis
Limpopo burrowing skink
Importance:
It serves as an important model species in specific limb development stages in the Scelotes genus (intermediate limb development stage, with forelimb digit = 2-3, hindlimb digit number = 4) and is used to study genomic evolution of vertebrates. It has a restricted distribution, occurring in distinct habitats and regions, making them excellent model species for biogeographic and molecular ecology studies.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Zhongning Zhao
University of the Free State
Date Published:
2026-04-24
Photo credit:
© L. Kemp
Fauna
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