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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 meter in height

Distribution:

The Rose spiderhead’s natural distribution is from the Du Toitskloof to the
Riviersonderend Mountains, with an area of occurrence of about 51 km².

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

34.3 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

13.76 kilobases

Assembly N50:

TBA

Contig number:

TBA

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Assembler used:

TBA

Genome Length:

0.51 Gigabases (487.2 million bases)

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

96.7% [S: 87.5%, D: 9.2%]

BUSCO database:

TBA

Serruria rosea

Rose spiderhead

Species Card Details

Importance:

The Rose spiderhead is one of the most delicate members of the Proteaceae family. It is classified as Near Threatened, so does not currently qualify for any of the threat categories. Due to possible future threats from afforestation, invasive alien plants and susceptibility to drought it may become threatened. Serruria has grown into an important member of the indigenous floriculture industry of South Africa. It is also used in the pot plant industry due to its compact size.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Louisa Blomerus
Crop Development, Agricultural Research Council

Date Published:

2025-03-12

Awaiting DOI

Photo credit:

© L. Blomerus

Flora

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