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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:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
10 - 15 m
Distribution:
Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa, Aldabra, Comoros, Kenya, Mozambique, Somalia, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zimbabwe in Africa.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
112.02 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
13.89 kilobases
Assembly N50:
22 007.81 kilobases
Contig number:
1 743
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
1.57 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
100.0% [S: 1.9%, D: 98.1%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Sideroxylon inerme
White Milkwood
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Importance:
The white milkwood is a protected South African tree found along the southern and eastern coasts, where it dominates parts of the Western Cape’s coastal forests. Its coppicing growth form may result in low genetic variability in isolated populations, making them vulnerable to rapid climatic change and highlighting the need for population genetic studies. The species also holds strong cultural significance, with historic gathering trees such as the “Post Office Tree” in Mossel Bay and the “Treaty Tree” in Woodstock, Cape Town.
Date Published:
2026-02-10
Photo credit:
© M. van Rooyen
Flora
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