Data to reproduce the analyses described in the manuscript: Acorn removal and seedling age determine oak (Quercus ilex L. and Q. suber L.) restoration outcome in ungulate-dominated Mediterranean environments

<p> Description of the project</p>
<p></p>
<p>Context: In the face of anthropogenic global change, Mediterranean oak-dominated ecosystems confront increased biotic (ungulate herbivory) and abiotic (drought) stressors, compromising forest regeneration. Restoration measures are imperative to address this scenario.</p>
<p>Aims: This study assesses the impact of different mitigation measures on the survival and biochemical traits of two widespread Mediterranean oak species.</p>
<p></p>
<p>4. Description of the dataset</p>
<p></p>
<p>The dataset encompasses information from the planting of 300 Quercus seedlings in Cabañeros (Quercus ilex; N=200) and Doñana (Quercus suber; N=100), subjected to various treatments: cotyledon/acorn removal, seedling age (1 vs. 2-year-old), and herbivore protection (fenced vs. non-fenced).</p>
<p></p>
<p>Monthly measurements of the seedlings were conducted from February to September 2021. Each visit consisted of recording: the seedling survival status (alive vs. dead), the damage caused by biotic and abiotic stress agents and the identification of the main stress agent, namely wild boar, deer, rabbit, fungi, insect or drought. </p>
<p>We considered the main stress agent the one leading to the plant death, or, in the case of surviving seedlings, the one identified with the highest intensity score. </p>
<p></p>
<p>To compare seedling physiological leaf biochemical responses to different treatments and plant ages, several non-destructive measures of chlorophyll, anthocyanin and flavonoid concentrations and the nitrogen balance index (NBI) were taken using the leaf clamp fluorescence sensor Dualex ® TMScientific+, Force One. The Dualex measures were taken on 5 leaves previously marked, from top to bottom, only in alive seedlings.</p>