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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:
Eudicot
Genome size:
2280 million DNA base pairs (2.28 Gigabases)
Size:
2 meters (height)
Distribution:
Agathosma betulina has a restricted natural distribution area in the Western Cape. It is found on mountain slopes near Niewoudtville, Piketberg and Tulbagh and in the Cederberg Mountains.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
33.26 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
14.6 kilobases
Assembly N50:
TBA
Contig number:
TBA
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
TBA
Genome Length:
0.55 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.3% [S:82.2%, D:11.1%]
BUSCO database:
TBA
Agathosma betulina
Bergboegoe
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Importance:
Wild plants of this species are still plentiful but are being harvested faster than they can reproduce, posing a threat to the species' survival. This has led to efforts to cultivate them. The plant has been used by the indigenous people of South Africa as a folk remedy for various disorders, including urinary tract infections. The essential oils and extracts of the leaves are used as flavouring for teas, candy, and a liquor known as buchu brandy in South Africa. The two primary chemical constituents of the oils of A. betulina are isomenthone and diosphenol. The extract is said to taste like blackcurrant.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Louisa Blomerus
Agricultural Research Council
Date Published:
2025-01-19
Photo credit:
© L. Blomerus
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