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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
1.5 m
Size:
1.5 m
Distribution:
Maiden's Quiver Tree is restricted to desert mountainsides and arid ravines in South Africa (Richtersveld of the Northern Cape) and southern Namibia. Its distribution is concentrated within the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
379.51 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.36 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
11.21 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.9% [S: 92.7%, D: 6.8%]
Importance:
Aloidendron ramosissimum is threatened by plant theft, overgrazing, and ongoing habitat degradation. Its slow growth and low resilience mean disturbances, drought, and increased grazing pressure have long-term impacts, especially on juvenile survival. Climate change and possible mining activities are expected to further reduce its suitable habitat.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Thabang Makola
South African Biodiversity Institute
Group:
Gymnosperm
Estimated genome size:
Size:
15 meters
Distribution:
Narrowly confined to the Cederberg, in the Western Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
406.93 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
18.79 kilobases
Assembly N50:
325 649.65 kilobases
Contig number:
1871
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
9.26 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
96.2% [S: 92.9%, D: 3.3%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Widdringtonia wallichii
Clanwilliam Cedar
Importance:
The Clanwilliam cedar, an iconic conifer of the Cederberg, is critically endangered. Its assembled genome will serve as a reference for mapping short-read sequences from trees of different ages and locations, allowing us to measure genetic diversity across space and time. These genetic insights will help guide seed-collection strategies and maximise genetic diversity in restoration efforts in the Cederberg.
Date Published:
2026-03-17
Photo credit:
© N. Illing
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