Environmental factors can influence spatial aggregation and acorn production in the endemic and endangered oak Quercus brandegeei in Mexico

Background and study species: The endangered oak Quercus brandegeei Goldman, endemic to Baja California Sur, Mexico, is threatened because of its relictual distribution restricted ephemeral riverbeds, declining populations, a lack seedling regeneration. Although there evidence viable acorn production, no seedlings or saplings have been found across the range occurrence for this species. 
 Hypothesis: We tested spatial aggregation factors determining hypothesizing that Q. trees would be less distant from one another in regions with higher precipitation tree attributes climatic variables co-determine presence.
 Study site dates: 2016-2017
 Methods: conducted Ripley’s K analysis determine each population’s pattern (random, uniform, clumped) 12 populations total 194 individuals. To find impact environmental on production we series generalized linear models eight variables. Results: revealed highly clumped species, highest rate occurring within 0-25 meters. Region but not cues were important determinants presence acorns. Conclusions: High clumps low some suggests niche attrition which confined very specific microsites along riverbeds. Suitable recruitment areas could reduced even further under hotter drier climate predicted region.