top of page

Phylum:

Tracheophyta

Estimated genome size:

0.1 m

Organism size:

0.1 m

Distribution

Carpobrotus acinaciformis thrives in coastal loose sands and rocky outcrops across the Western Cape Province, ranging from Saldanha Bay to the Cape Peninsula and extending eastward to Mossel Bay. While native to South Africa, this species has also become naturalized in other regions worldwide.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

68.91 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

4.17 kilobases

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Genome Length:

653.21 Mb

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

98.5%

Importance:

The Pink Sourfig bears edible fruits with notable medicinal properties, and is consumed orally to help treat tuberculosis and other pulmonary infections. Leaf juice is used topically on sores or burns and is an antiseptic. The leaf juice is believed to have diuretic effects and to aid in relieving dysentery. Both leaf and fruit preparations are taken internally to address heart conditions and used as a mouthwash or gargle to soothe sore throats and oral sores.

Sample Contributor contact details

Ernst Van Jaarsveld,
University of Western Cape | Babylonstoren

Phylum:

Tracheophyta

Estimated genome size:

1.5 Billion DNA base pairs

Organism 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

Ziziphus mucronata

Blinkblaar-wag-’n-bietjie

Species Card Details

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Genome Length:

310.61 Mb

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

99%

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

Photo credit:

© H. de Lange

bottom of page