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Group:
Reptile
Estimated genome size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Size:
10 - 20 cm (total body length)
Distribution:
Endemic to the Republic of South Africa, occurring in Little Namaqualand from Port Nolloth to Clanwilliam.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
48.66 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
5.93 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
1.56 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 96.9%, D: 2.0%]
Importance:
It serves as an important model species for studying specific stages of limb development within the genus Scelotes, representing an intermediate limb development stage (forelimb digits = 0; hindlimb digits = 2), and for investigating the genomic evolution of vertebrates. It has a restricted distribution and occurs in distinct habitats and regions, making it an excellent model species for biogeographic and molecular ecology studies.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Dr. Zhongning Zhao
University of 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
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