Salinas H., Reynoso V. H., Seed shielding, an undescribed process that prevents seed from overheating (and dying) in extreme weather conditions, Journal of Arid Environments, 2023, 211:104926, doi: 10.1016/j.jaridenv.2022.104926
A study on San Esteban Island compares germination of Pachycereus pringlei seeds after passage through two iguana species and after sun exposure. A separate field experiment tests the protection provided by feces. The findings reveal a cost of digestion alongside the benefit of retaining some germinable seeds in an exposed environment.