In the study, they examined how the next generation of pinyon pine trees were recovering after a severe drought in 2002 - 2004 caused widespread mortality in adult trees. (sciencedaily.com)
His department has already seen a reduction in pinyon pines, and according to the USGS study, which is still undergoing peer review, things are only going to get worse. (scientificamerican.com)
A lack of this adaptation may eventually become a disadvantage for pinyon pine trees, but for now existing microsites provide both the offensive and defensive tactics needed to defend their ground from encroaching grasses. (sciencedaily.com)