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Phylum:

Chordata

Estimated genome size:

Maximum length 50 cm

Organism size:

Maximum length 50 cm

Distribution:

Endemic to southern Africa, Labeo capensis is primarily found in the Orange-Vaal River system.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

13.8 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

5.49 kilobases

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Genome Length:

1.1 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

98.8% [S: 94.9%, D: 3.9%]

Importance:

The Orange river mudfish is a freshwater species endemic to southern Africa. Human activities, such as inter-basin water transfers, have facilitated hybridisation with Moggel (Labeo umbratus). Genomic data are essential to clarify its phylogenetic placement and assess the extent of hybridisation. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Labeo capensis is an occasional angling species, and it is also used in ecological and physiological research. Additionally, it holds potential as a commercial species in large impoundments.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Dr Gwynneth Matcher
South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity

Phylum:

Magnoliophyta

Estimated genome size:

739 million DNA base pairs (0.74 Gigabases)

Organism size:

Up to 8 meters in height

Distribution:

The mountain strelitzia occurs from the Chimanimani Mountains in Zimbabwe, through Mozambique, the Northern Provinces of South Africa and Eswatini. It grows inland, preferring wetter habitats like Afromontane forests.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

47.59 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

9.11 kilobases

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Genome Length:

586.36 million bases (0.59 Gigabases)

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

98.9% [S: 56.5%, D: 42.4%]

Strelitzia caudata

Mountain strelitzia

Species Card Details

Importance:

The mountain strelitzia or wild banana is an impressive banana-like plant. It has unique white flowers with a pink tinge emerging from a purple spathe (sheath). It is one of three large Strelitzia species, alongside Strelitzia alba and Strelitzia nicolai, which are often confused.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Prof. Eshchar Mizrachi
University of Pretoria

Date Published:

2025-02-17

Awaiting DOI

Photo credit:

© G.J. Mann

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