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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:
Eudicot
Genome size:
Unknown
Size:
0.6 – 1.5 meters in height
Distribution:
The blushing bride occurs close to Franschhoek on mountain slopes in soils derived from granite. It is Critically Endangered as it is threatened by alien invasive species such as hakea and pines. Too frequent fires are a critical threat to the remaining wild populations, as immature plants are not given enough time to produce seeds that will rejuvenate the underground seed bank.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
34.3 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
13.76 kilobases
Assembly N50:
244.21 kilobases
Contig number:
7 224
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
0.51 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
96.7% [S: 87.5%, D: 9.2%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Serruria florida
Blushing bride
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Importance:
The blushing bride is one of the most delicate members of the Proteaceae family. Serruria has grown into an important member of the indigenous floriculture industry of South Africa. On the one hand the conservation of this endangered member is critical, but on the other the delicate flowers are creating jobs and earning international value on export of flowers.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Louisa Blomerus
Crop Development, Agricultural Research Council
Date Published:
2025-03-12
Photo credit:
© L. Blomerus
Flora
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