top of page
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:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
Up to 8 meters
Distribution:
Searsia lancea is widespread across southern Africa, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and Eswatini. In South Africa, it occurs in all provinces and is common in semi-arid regions, especially along riverbanks, savannas, and disturbed areas.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
100.94 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
19.61 kilobases
Assembly N50:
1 049.17 kilobases
Contig number:
1 667
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
0.42 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.6% [S: 94.1%, D: 4.5%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Searsia lancea
Karee
Importance:
Searsia lancea is a hardy, fast-growing indigenous tree important for dryland ecosystems and urban greening due to its resilience. Despite its ecological value and widespread use, genomic resources are lacking, and genome sequencing would support conservation, restoration, and climate adaptation research.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Eshchar Mizrachi
University of Pretoria
Date Published:
2026-04-21
Photo credit:
© Y. Mgwatyu
Flora
bottom of page