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Phylum:
Tracheophyta
Estimated genome size:
5-15 m
Organism size:
5-15 m
Distribution:
The Wild Almond / Wilde Amandel is confined to the fynbos biome in mountain regions such as Gifberg, Klein Rivier, Riviersonderend Mountains and the eastern side of Table Mountain.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
41.27 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
20.1 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.85 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.1%
Importance:
The fresh fruits are poisonous but can be used as a coffee substitute if processed correctly, which involves leaching out the poison – a skill learned from the Khoi.
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
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
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