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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

Genome size:

1.5 Billion DNA base pairs

Size:

3-10 m

Distribution:

The Blinkblaar-wag-’n bietjie also known as the buffalo thorn is found throughout the summer rainfall regions of sub Saharan Africa. It thrives in temperate and tropical climates, particularly in areas with thorny vegetation. This versatile tree occupies diverse habitats and its presence often indicates underground water sources.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

82.39 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

5.37 kilobases

Assembly N50:

TBA

Contig number:

TBA

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Assembler used:

TBA

Genome Length:

310.61 Mb

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

99%

BUSCO database:

TBA

Ziziphus mucronata

Blinkblaar-wag-’n-bietjie

Species Card Details

Importance:

Buffalo thorn's flowers, leaves and berries are used as foodsources by bees, various bird species, and wild and domestic animals. Humans have used the berries to make porridge, coffee substitute and beer. The different tissues are important to treat a range of medical conditions such as pain, respiratory issues, skin infections and snake bites in East Africa. It also plays an important role in cultural activities such as burial rites and the wood is very useful as a timber source.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Ernst Van Jaarsveld,
University of Western Cape | Babylonstoren

Date Published:

2024-09-13

Awaiting DOI

Photo credit:

© H. de Lange

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