A genomic milestone for the White Milkwood
Every living thing carries a unique DNA blueprint and understanding that blueprint is key to conserving biodiversity. The 1KSA Project is sequencing the genomes of 1,000 South African species to support research and conservation efforts across the country.
Dr Shane Murray, Marelise Faul and Lindelwa Hlubi in the milkwood forest
We are proud to share that, through this project, the White Milkwood (Sideroxylon inerme) has now been fully sequenced and assembled by the team at DIPLOMICS. This milestone provides an important scientific resource that will help researchers better understand the species and support its long-term conservation.
Recently, Dr Shane Murray, project lead and coordinator of the 1KSA Project, visited Grootbos to see the individual White Milkwood selected for genomic sequencing.
The completed genome will support ongoing research, including population genetics studies led by the University of Cape Town, helping scientists understand how Milkwood populations are connected across the landscape.
The White Milkwood is one of South Africa’s protected tree species and holds deep ecological, cultural and historical significance along our coastline. From ancient forests to modern genetics, this remarkable tree continues to reveal new insights that will help protect it for generations to come.
View all the other 1KSA species cards here: https://www.1ksa.org.za/species-cards
