#FunFactFriday: Did you know that point-leaf manzanita seeds need help from wild canine friends in order to grow? In the Spring Mountains our canine omnivores, coyotes and grey foxes, are known to feast on the abundant manzanita berries. This serves the plant well, and as the seeds pass through the digestive system their hard coating dissolves. Once the seeds are passed, they are now able to germinate and grow, and the canines are able to mark their territory! Look for evidence of this mutualistic relationship along trails.
 
This process is known as scarification and can also be accomplished in instances of wildfire.
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