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

Restoration measures are imperative to address this scenario. Aims: This study assesses the impact of different mitigation measures on the survival and biochemical traits of two widespread Mediterranean oak species. 4.

Description of the dataset 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). 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.