Basic Information
Common Name: San Diego Thorn-mint
Scientific Name: Acanthomintha ilicifolia
Species Code: ACAILI
Management Category: SO (significant occurrence at risk of loss)
Occurrence Map
Table of Occurrences
Loading...

Species Information

MSP Species Background

Goals and Objectives

Goal: Maintain large populations, enhance small populations, and establish new populations of San Diego thornmint or pollinator habitat to buffer against environmental stochasticity, maintain genetic diversity, and promote connectivity, thereby enhancing resilience within and among MUs over the long-term (>100 years) in native habitats.

regional and/or local PRE 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 SO
MGT-IMP-FMGT ACAILI-1

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

Starting in 2017, reduce the potential impact of fire for at risk large populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) by reducing fuel loads of invasive annuals

Action Statement Action status Projects
IMP-1 Manage thatch and invasive annuals every 3-5 years to reduce fire threat for populations of San Diego thornmint most at risk of fire (populations with ignition probability or fire frequency > 3 or that have burned since 2003) available for implementation
IMP-2 Submit project metadata, monitoring datasets and report with management actions to the MSP Web Portal. waiting for precedent action
Criteria Deadline year
Fuel Loads and Invasive Grasses Reduced for at Risk Populations 2021
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-2 MON-IMP-IMG Beginning in 2017, annually inspect conserved populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect covariate habitat and threats data to determine management needs.
regional and/or local NFO 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 SO
MON-IMP-IMG ACAILI-2

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

Beginning in 2017, annually inspect conserved populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect covariate habitat and threats data to determine management needs.

Action Statement Action status Projects
IMP-1 Based upon occurrence status and threats, determine management needs including whether routine management or more intensive management is warranted. some occurrences are in progress
IMP-2 Submit project metadata, occurrence status, habitat and threats data, and management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. some occurrences are in progress
Criteria Deadline year
Surveys Completed Annually with Management Recommendations 2021
Threat Name Threat Code
Altered fire regimeALTFIR
Human uses of the PreservesHUMUSE
Invasive plantsINVPLA
Urban developmentURBDEV
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-3 MGT-IMP-IMG Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring at San Diego thornmint occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
ACAILI-4 MGT-DEV-BMP In 2017, continue refining BMPs developed for San Diego thornmint (CBI 2014) by incorporating results of management experiments to control invasive species that threaten populations (e.g., Brachypodium removal studies at Mission Trails and South Crest) and based on research studies (e.g., seed bulking guidelines, seed transfer zones).
ACAILI-5 MON-RES-GEN In 2017, continue a study begun in 2016 to characterize the population genetic structure, gene flow, and genetic diversity for San Diego thornmint occurrences (see occurrence table). The study will determine if there is evidence of mixed ploidy levels within or among occurrences; evaluate vulnerability of occurrences to genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity; assess the level of gene flow among occurrences; identify if there are signatures of genetic bottlenecks or low genetic diversity in occurrences that have undergone recent reductions; and look for evidence of local population adaptation. Based on the results of the genetic analyses, management recommendations will include whether common garden and reciprocal transplantations are necessary before proceeding with population enhancement or restoration and will provide specific recommendations for collecting, bulking and distributing seed to enhance existing occurrences or establish new occurrences.
ACAILI-6 MGT-PRP-MGTPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
local NFO 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 SO
MGT-IMP-IMG ACAILI-3

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring at San Diego thornmint occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.

Action Statement Action status Projects
IMP-1 Perform routine management activities as needed, such as protecting occurrences from disturbance through enforcement and controlling invasive non-native plant species to =20% absolute cover. available for implementation San Diego Thornmint Restoration
IMP-2 Submit project metadata and management data to MSP web portal. available for implementation San Diego Thornmint Restoration
Criteria Deadline year
Routine Management Completed as Needed Based Upon Monitoring Recommendations 2021
Threat Name Threat Code
Altered fire regimeALTFIR
Human uses of the PreservesHUMUSE
Invasive plantsINVPLA
Urban developmentURBDEV
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-2 MON-IMP-IMG Beginning in 2017, annually inspect conserved populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect covariate habitat and threats data to determine management needs.
ACAILI-4 MGT-DEV-BMP In 2017, continue refining BMPs developed for San Diego thornmint (CBI 2014) by incorporating results of management experiments to control invasive species that threaten populations (e.g., Brachypodium removal studies at Mission Trails and South Crest) and based on research studies (e.g., seed bulking guidelines, seed transfer zones).
ACAILI-6 MGT-PRP-MGTPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
ACAILI-9 MGT-PRP-SBPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and recommendations from the 2016-2017 genetic study to provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing sources of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
Regional NFO 2017 SO
MGT-DEV-BMP ACAILI-4

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

In 2017, continue refining BMPs developed for San Diego thornmint (CBI 2014) by incorporating results of management experiments to control invasive species that threaten populations (e.g., Brachypodium removal studies at Mission Trails and South Crest) and based on research studies (e.g., seed bulking guidelines, seed transfer zones).

Action Statement Action status Projects
DEV-1 Refine BMPs prepared by CBI in the San Diego Thornmint Adaptive Management Framework (2014) by incorporating results of management experiments to control invasive species that threaten populations (e.g., Brachypodium removal and South County Grasslands projects) and based on research studies (e.g., seed bulking guidelines, seed transfer) In progress
DEV-2 Submit project metadata, management datasets and BMP report to MSP web portal. In progress
Criteria Deadline year
BMPs for San Diego Thornmint Prepared by 2018 2021
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-3 MGT-IMP-IMG Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring at San Diego thornmint occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
ACAILI-6 MGT-PRP-MGTPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
regional NFO 2017 SO
MON-RES-GEN ACAILI-5

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

In 2017, continue a study begun in 2016 to characterize the population genetic structure, gene flow, and genetic diversity for San Diego thornmint occurrences (see occurrence table). The study will determine if there is evidence of mixed ploidy levels within or among occurrences; evaluate vulnerability of occurrences to genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity; assess the level of gene flow among occurrences; identify if there are signatures of genetic bottlenecks or low genetic diversity in occurrences that have undergone recent reductions; and look for evidence of local population adaptation. Based on the results of the genetic analyses, management recommendations will include whether common garden and reciprocal transplantations are necessary before proceeding with population enhancement or restoration and will provide specific recommendations for collecting, bulking and distributing seed to enhance existing occurrences or establish new occurrences.

Action Statement Action status Projects
RES-1 Use BMPs to collect plant material for genetic samples at San Diego thornmint occurrences on Conserved lands in the MSPA. in progress
RES-2 Evaluate the overall long-term genetic trajectory for San Diego thornmint. in progress
RES-3 Hold a workshop of scientists, rare plant experts, and land managers to develop management recommendations based upon the results of genetic analyses. in progress
RES-4 Submit project metadata, genetic datasets and analyses, and report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. in progress
RES-4 Submit project metadata, genetic datasets and analyses, and report with management recommendations to the MSP Web Portal. in progress
Criteria Deadline year
By 2017, Completed Genetic Study for San Diego Thornmint 2021
Threat Name Threat Code
Loss of connectivityLOSCON
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-2 MON-IMP-IMG Beginning in 2017, annually inspect conserved populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect covariate habitat and threats data to determine management needs.
ACAILI-6 MGT-PRP-MGTPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
ACAILI-9 MGT-PRP-SBPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and recommendations from the 2016-2017 genetic study to provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing sources of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
regional NFO 2018 SO
MGT-PRP-MGTPL ACAILI-6

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence

Action Statement Action status Projects
PRP-1 Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the San Diego thornmint section in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. waiting for precedent action
PRP-2 Develop a conceptual model that identifies management actions to effectively reduce threats to San Diego thornmint occurrences. waiting for precedent action
PRP-3 Prioritize occurrences for management based upon an assessment of occurrence size, the potential for management to significantly reduce identified threats, and the availability of adjacent suitable habitat for occurrence expansion. waiting for precedent action
PRP-4 Develop an implementation plan for San Diego thornmint that prioritizes management actions for the next 5 years and details tasks, lead entities, responsibilities, and timelines, budgets. waiting for precedent action
PRP-5 Submit project metadata and MSP Rare Plant Management Plan to the MSP Web Portal. waiting for precedent action
Criteria Deadline year
By 2019 Completed Section for San Diego Thornmint in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan. 2021
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-1 MGT-IMP-FMGT Starting in 2017, reduce the potential impact of fire for at risk large populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) by reducing fuel loads of invasive annuals
ACAILI-2 MON-IMP-IMG Beginning in 2017, annually inspect conserved populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect covariate habitat and threats data to determine management needs.
ACAILI-3 MGT-IMP-IMG Beginning in 2017, conduct routine management actions identified through the IMG monitoring at San Diego thornmint occurrences on Conserved Lands (see occurrence table). Depending on the type and level of threat, management should only be conducted as needed, not necessarily every year, and using BMPs with precautions to do no harm.
ACAILI-4 MGT-DEV-BMP In 2017, continue refining BMPs developed for San Diego thornmint (CBI 2014) by incorporating results of management experiments to control invasive species that threaten populations (e.g., Brachypodium removal studies at Mission Trails and South Crest) and based on research studies (e.g., seed bulking guidelines, seed transfer zones).
ACAILI-5 MON-RES-GEN In 2017, continue a study begun in 2016 to characterize the population genetic structure, gene flow, and genetic diversity for San Diego thornmint occurrences (see occurrence table). The study will determine if there is evidence of mixed ploidy levels within or among occurrences; evaluate vulnerability of occurrences to genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity; assess the level of gene flow among occurrences; identify if there are signatures of genetic bottlenecks or low genetic diversity in occurrences that have undergone recent reductions; and look for evidence of local population adaptation. Based on the results of the genetic analyses, management recommendations will include whether common garden and reciprocal transplantations are necessary before proceeding with population enhancement or restoration and will provide specific recommendations for collecting, bulking and distributing seed to enhance existing occurrences or establish new occurrences.
ACAILI-7 MGT-IMP-MGTPL In 2019, begin implementing highest priority management actions identified for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
ACAILI-8 MON-IMP-MGTPL In 2019, begin monitoring the effectiveness of implementation of the highest priority management actions identified in the San Diego thornmint section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
ACAILI-9 MGT-PRP-SBPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and recommendations from the 2016-2017 genetic study to provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing sources of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
Regional and/or Local NFO 2019, 2020, 2021 SO
MGT-IMP-MGTPL ACAILI-7

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

In 2019, begin implementing highest priority management actions identified for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.

Action Statement Action status Projects
IMP-1 Submit project metadata, management datasets, and report to the MSP Web Portal. waiting for precedent action
Criteria Deadline year
By 2023, =2 High Priority Management Actions Implemented for San Diego Thornmint from the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan 2021
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-6 MGT-PRP-MGTPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
ACAILI-8 MON-IMP-MGTPL In 2019, begin monitoring the effectiveness of implementation of the highest priority management actions identified in the San Diego thornmint section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
ACAILI-9 MGT-PRP-SBPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and recommendations from the 2016-2017 genetic study to provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing sources of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
Regional and/or Local NFO 2019, 2020, 2021 SO
MON-IMP-MGTPL ACAILI-8

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

In 2019, begin monitoring the effectiveness of implementation of the highest priority management actions identified in the San Diego thornmint section of the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.

Action Statement Action status Projects
IMP-1 Submit metadata, management effectiveness datasets, analyses, and report to the MSP Web Portal. waiting for precedent action
Criteria Deadline year
Effectiveness of High Priority Management Actions Determined 2021
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-6 MGT-PRP-MGTPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
ACAILI-7 MGT-IMP-MGTPL In 2019, begin implementing highest priority management actions identified for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan.
Regional NFO 2018 SO
MGT-PRP-SBPL ACAILI-9

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and recommendations from the 2016-2017 genetic study to provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing sources of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.

Action Statement Action status Projects
PRP-1 Consult the San Diego County Rare Plant Working Group made up of plant ecologists, geneticists, rare plant experts, land managers, restoration practitioners, seed banking and bulking practitioners, wildlife agencies, and other stakeholders to provide input and recommendations for the San Diego thornmint section of the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan. waiting for precedent action California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank
PRP-2 Prepare a seed collection plan to collect seeds over multiple years, collect seeds several times within a season, accumulate seeds across populations, and to sample among habitats and ecological niches. Include guidelines for collecting and storing seeds along maternal lines from small occurrences (<1,000 plants) and to provide propagules to be used in management experiments, enhancement of existing occurrences, and establishment of new occurrences. waiting for precedent action California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank
PRP-3 The seed collection plan should include guidelines for collecting seeds from occurrences of sufficient size to accommodate harvest and based on genetic studies as available. Include provisions for collecting seed from unconserved populations planned for development. waiting for precedent action California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank
PRP-4 Include protocols and guidelines for collecting voucher specimens and submitting to the San Diego Natural History Museum (McEachern et al. 2007). waiting for precedent action California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank
PRP-5 Include guidelines for testing seeds for viability and to obtain information on dormancy and germination rates. waiting for precedent action California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank
PRP-6 Submit project metadata and MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to MSP Web Portal. waiting for precedent action California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank
Criteria Deadline year
By 2019, Completed Section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection Banking and Bulking Plan 2021
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-5 MON-RES-GEN In 2017, continue a study begun in 2016 to characterize the population genetic structure, gene flow, and genetic diversity for San Diego thornmint occurrences (see occurrence table). The study will determine if there is evidence of mixed ploidy levels within or among occurrences; evaluate vulnerability of occurrences to genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity; assess the level of gene flow among occurrences; identify if there are signatures of genetic bottlenecks or low genetic diversity in occurrences that have undergone recent reductions; and look for evidence of local population adaptation. Based on the results of the genetic analyses, management recommendations will include whether common garden and reciprocal transplantations are necessary before proceeding with population enhancement or restoration and will provide specific recommendations for collecting, bulking and distributing seed to enhance existing occurrences or establish new occurrences.
ACAILI-6 MGT-PRP-MGTPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence
Regional and/or Local NFO 2019, 2020, 2021 SO
MGT-IMP-SBPL ACAILI-10

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

In 2019, begin implementing the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan for San Diego thornmint to collect and store seeds at a permanent seed bank and to provide propagules as needed for management oriented research, existing population enhancement and establishment of new occurrences.

Action Statement Action status Projects
IMP-1 Bulk seed at a qualified facility for enhancement, expansion, establishment or transplantation projects using seed from genetically appropriate donor accessions in the propagation seed bank collection. waiting for precedent action California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank
IMP-2 Maintain records for collected seed to document donor and receptor sites, collection dates and amounts. Submit seed collection, storage and bulking data to the MSP Web Portal. waiting for precedent action California Plant Rescue (CaPR) - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Plant Seed Bank
Criteria Deadline year
By 2023, =2 Highest Priority Actions Implemented for San Diego thornmint from the MSP Seed Banking and Bulking Plan 2021
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-5 MON-RES-GEN In 2017, continue a study begun in 2016 to characterize the population genetic structure, gene flow, and genetic diversity for San Diego thornmint occurrences (see occurrence table). The study will determine if there is evidence of mixed ploidy levels within or among occurrences; evaluate vulnerability of occurrences to genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity; assess the level of gene flow among occurrences; identify if there are signatures of genetic bottlenecks or low genetic diversity in occurrences that have undergone recent reductions; and look for evidence of local population adaptation. Based on the results of the genetic analyses, management recommendations will include whether common garden and reciprocal transplantations are necessary before proceeding with population enhancement or restoration and will provide specific recommendations for collecting, bulking and distributing seed to enhance existing occurrences or establish new occurrences.
ACAILI-9 MGT-PRP-SBPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint in the MSP Seed Collection, Banking and Bulking Plan to preserve genetic diversity and rescue occurrences in case of catastrophic disturbance. The plan should incorporate best science and management practices (Wall 2009, KEW 2016) and recommendations from the 2016-2017 genetic study to provide guidelines for collecting and storing seeds over the long term at a permanent, established conservation seed bank (e.g., Institute for Conservation Research Native Plant Seed Bank, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Seed Conservation Program) and for providing sources of seeds for management purposes. The plan should include recommendations for: collecting and storing seeds for conservation banking; management oriented research; rescuing occurrences after catastrophic disturbances; and seed bulking and out-planting to augment extant occurrences or to establish new occurrences with consideration of genetic implications for population sustainability.
Regional NFO 2017 SO
MON-RES-SPEC ACAILI-11

Management units: 3, 4, 5, 6

In 2017, continue field research into soils and habitat relationships and development of habitat suitability and climate change models for San Diego thornmint and other edaphic endemic plants to better understand habitat requirements and to identify and prioritize geographic areas important for connectivity, restoration, and range shifts due to climate change and other threats.

Action Statement Action status Projects
RES-1 Test soils at potential expansion sites and compare to occupied reference sites to determine site suitability based on soils. In progress Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants
RES-2 Prepare habitat suitability models under current environmental conditions and for different scenarios of climate change to delineate potential future habitat. In progress Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants
RES-3 Collect covariate data on vegetation composition and cover (alliance and association-level mapping), soils, invasive plants and other threats for selected populations. In progress Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants
RES-4 Prioritize locations for conservation, management, and future surveys based on predicted distributions and environmental correlates. In progress Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants
RES-5 Submit project metadata, monitoring data and report to MSP web portal. In progress Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants
Criteria Deadline year
Refined Models and Prioritized Future Survey Locations for San Diego Thornmint by 2018 2021
Code Obj. code Statement
ACAILI-2 MON-IMP-IMG Beginning in 2017, annually inspect conserved populations of San Diego thornmint (see occurrence table) using the regional rare plant IMG monitoring protocol to record abundance and collect covariate habitat and threats data to determine management needs.
ACAILI-5 MON-RES-GEN In 2017, continue a study begun in 2016 to characterize the population genetic structure, gene flow, and genetic diversity for San Diego thornmint occurrences (see occurrence table). The study will determine if there is evidence of mixed ploidy levels within or among occurrences; evaluate vulnerability of occurrences to genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity; assess the level of gene flow among occurrences; identify if there are signatures of genetic bottlenecks or low genetic diversity in occurrences that have undergone recent reductions; and look for evidence of local population adaptation. Based on the results of the genetic analyses, management recommendations will include whether common garden and reciprocal transplantations are necessary before proceeding with population enhancement or restoration and will provide specific recommendations for collecting, bulking and distributing seed to enhance existing occurrences or establish new occurrences.
ACAILI-6 MGT-PRP-MGTPL In 2018, begin preparing a section for San Diego thornmint the MSP Rare Plant Management Plan that prioritizes management actions to maintain or expand occurrences on Conserved Lands based upon an assessment of data on occurrence status, habitat and threats. Prioritize management recommendations to maintain large occurrences and enhance at least 3 small occurrences (see occurrence table). Minimum criteria for enhancement are to reduce invasive annual nonnative plants and thatch to less than 20% absolute cover within the occurrence

Caution

Overall Condition

Improving

Overall Trend

Moderate

Overall Confidence
Metric Condition Trend Confidence
1. Conserved Occurrences

Number of known, extant occurrences on conserved lands


Good

Improving

Moderate
2. Population Status

Number of occurrences increasing in size over time


Caution

No Change

Moderate
3. Threats to Occurrences

Percent of occurrences with significant threats


Concern

No Change

High
Current Status
The current overall condition status for the San Diego Thornmint Species Indicator is Caution, with an Improving trend, based on the consideration of all three metrics. While Metric 2 (occurrence status) and Metric 3 (threats to occurrences) have not changed over time, there has been a large increase in the number of conserved occurrences (Metric 1). For Metric 2, occurrence status (size) has recently increased in response to management and favorable environmental conditions in 2019 and 2020 after intensive drought in 2014 and 2015. This indicates that the condition of thornmint could improve over time with management and favorable weather conditions. Determination of whether there is an overall long-term improving trend in occurrence status (Metric 2) requires more years of monitoring and is currently assessed as No Change. Threats remain relatively high at conserved San Diego thornmint occurrences (Metric 3). The condition of thornmint can improve over time with management and supports an overall improving trend, although more years of data are required to evaluate this potential trend into the future. Additional metrics related to management may be developed in the future.
Metrics Dashboard
Full metric information for this species is available on our Dashboard.
Metrics Dashboard
Brachypodium Control
This project used a science-based, experimental approach to develop treatment and restoration strategies for the emerging invasive grass, Brachypodium distachyon (Brachypodium), on conserved lands in southern San Diego County, CA. Phase I (2013-2015) included conceptual models to inform experimentally-based treatment and restoration strategies; experimental treatments (dethatching, herbicide, mechanical removal), monitoring, and seed collection, bulking, and outplanting. Treatments continued in Phase II (2016-2017), using the most effective management strategy (herbicide). See the Phase I and II reports for study results and Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Brachypodium control. Herbicide is the most effective treatment for controlling Brachypodium but timing of treatment is critical and multiple treatments may be required in a single year, depending on rainfall and temperature. Herbicide treatment of forbs becomes increasingly important as cover of Brachypodium and other nonnative grasses decrease. Dethatching improves treatment effectiveness and stimulates the soil seedbank (if present). The experimental design was coordinated with SDMMP and the City of San Diego, and results may contribute to a regional analysis of Brachypodium control across multiple sites, habitats, and microclimates.
Covered and Invasive Species Management: Crestridge Ecological Reserve and South Crest Properties
This was a two year, TransNet-funded study (#5001586) on Crestridge Ecological Reserve and South Crest properties. Both properties support MSCP covered species and sensitive habitats, and function as critical landscape linkages between the northern and southern MSCP. Surrounded by residential development and heavily impacted by the 2003 Cedar Fire, these properties are subject to ongoing invasive plant issues. Specific task actions included invasive plant and covered plant species mapping and risk assessment s, invasive plant control and experimental studies, and development of an early detection invasive control plan. This project was partially funded by SANDAG TransNet EMP Land Management Grant #5001586.
Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants
The Management Strategic Plan for San Diego County requires prioritization and management for edaphic endemic plants, including the five rare plants addressed in this study. These species face low genetic diversity due to reduced population sizes, geographic isolation, and loss of pollinators. To enhance the resilience of these species across their ranges, we must manage threats to increase population sizes, identify potentially suitable habitat to connect existing populations, find or restore new populations, and provide opportunities for shifting distributions due to climate change. This study identifies and describes geographic areas that support the five edaphic endemic species and their habitat in a design that enhances resilience and provides opportunities for shifting distributions. We developed conceptual models to inform field studies and management, refined soils and vegetation attributes, and assessed regional population structure and threats. We used results to suggest prioritized locations for surveys, management, potential translocation, and additional conservation or acquisition. Project partners (U.S. Geological Survey and San Diego Management and Monitoring Program) modeled suitable habitat for the target species under current and future climate scenarios; we reference models as appropriate.
MTRP San Diego Thornmint Restoration
This project is focused on restoring and enhancing approximately 1.4 acre of degraded habitat for San Diego thornmint (Federally Threatened / State Endangered, Narrow Endemic Covered Species under the City’s MSCP Subarea Plan, and MSP listed sensitive species [Category SO]). This program addresses the immediate needs of the San Diego thornmint within MTRP Fortuna (CNDDB EO 33; MOM OccID ACIL_4MTRP021) and (EO 35; MOM OccID 4MTRP022) where loss and degradation of existing clay lens habitat has occurred due to an increase of invasive plant species and drought. This project will benefit sensitive species and vegetation communities include herbicide treatment, fence and sign installation, native seed collection and redistribution to expand occupied habitat and introduce thornmint to new locations with suitable friable clay soil, vegetation monitoring, and focused monitoring surveys for the San Diego thornmint in the treatment areas. The methodologies used in conjunction with this proposal are similar to those used to successfully expand and increase the population of thornmint within approximately 0.5 acre at Site 1 and used to successfully increase the population of thornmint at Wrights Field. Both of these projects were formerly funded through EMP grants. In 2020 and 2021, the thornimint at both of these projects had better germination and flowering numbers than other natural populations (pers. comm. City PRD Sara Allen). This qualitative observation supports that the methods used in these two projects were successful in building more population resiliency. Due to the density of non-natives at all four of the restoration sites prior to implementation, we recommend waiting until the next growing season (Year 2) to disperse previously collected thornmint seeds. This will allow for weed control activities to be implemented later this season which will reduce the density of non-native species. Due to the increased density of thatch at site 4 since the original proposal was prepared, ESA coordinated with the City of San Diego and Foundation staff to have Park volunteers work on weed dethatching at Site 4. In December 2023, Park volunteers partially cut the thatch at site 4. Because additional dethatching effort could be completed within the existing grant budget, the Habitat West crew performed a follow up visit to site 4 and completed a further cleaning of the thatch at the site.
Otay Mesa Rare Plants
The Otay Mesa Rare Plants Project will improve the conservation status of several of San Diego County's rarest plants on important conserved lands in Otay Mesa. The Project includes seed bulking for two high-priority Management Strategic Plan (MSP) plant species and direct restoration of five MSP plants with seeding, planting, and maintenance. Seeding, planting, and maintenance for the MSP plants will be conducted as part of two separate habitat restoration projects, one to restore vernal pools and maritime succulent scrub and another to restore maritime succulent scrub and native grasslands. This project was partially funded by SANDAG TransNet EMP Land Management Grant #5004954.
Population Genetic Analysis of 6 Rare Plant Species in San Diego County
The first phase (years 1-2) of this research task focused on genetic and cytological screening to determine potential ploidy and population genetic differences among occurrences within species. Upon completion, an expert panel convened to review results of the genetic studies and develop specific recommendations for each species relative to the MSP management objectives planned for that species. These recommendations included designing appropriate common garden or reciprocal transplant studies to determine the fitness consequences of using seed from different populations to increase population size or establish new occurrences. The recommendations also addressed MSP objectives involving seed banking and seed bulking needs for each species. The expert panel also made recommendations on genetic management of populations, including whether genetic connectivity needs to be enhanced or restored to maintain or increase genetic diversity. Recommended and approved studies will be added in the second phase (beginning in year 3). The following questions were specifically addressed in phase 1: 1. What is the status of documented occurrences? 2. Is there evidence of mixed ploidy levels among or within occurrences? 3. What is current genetic structure among and within occurrences in the MSPA? How vulnerable are the occurrences to genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity and is there gene flow between occurrences? 4. Are there signatures of genetic bottlenecks or lower genetic diversity in populations that have undergone recent reductions due to fire, drought, or other causes, or evidence of local adaptation? 5. Based on the cytological and genetic analysis, what are the recommendations for common garden and reciprocal transplantations, for collecting, bulking and distributing seeds for enhancing existing occurrences, and for establishing new occurrences?
Rare Plant Inspect and Manage Monitoring 2014-2026
From 2014-2026, a Management and Monitoring Strategic Plan (MSP Roadmap) monitoring objective for 30 rare plant species is to inspect occurrences to determine management needs. The inspect and manage (IMG) objective is implemented to document the status of rare plant occurrences and assess habitats and threats to develop specific management recommendations. IMG monitoring is implemented by a combination of land managers and contracted biologists in coordination with the SDMMP. Available rare plant data is posted below. New annual updates are typically posted in March. Based upon an evaluation of these data, a 2014-2026 monitoring schedule has been developed for the 30 rare plant species (attached below). Coordinating data collection across the region allows analyses of species and population trends over time and provides a better understanding of the association between habitat and threat covariates and population dynamics.
Rare Plant Management and Seed Plan
MSP Roadmap 2019 and 2020 objectives include developing a Management Strategic Plan Framework Rare Plant Management Plan for Conserved Lands in Western San Diego County and a Management Strategic Plan Seed Collection, Banking, and Bulking Plan for Conserved Lands in Western San Diego County. These plans include general sections with background information and rationale for prioritizing and developing management recommendations with separate chapters and specific recommendations for priority species. In 2019, general framework sections were developed along with species chapters for San Diego thornmint, Nuttall's acmispon, salt marsh bird's-beak and Otay tarplant (CBI, AECOM and SDMMP 2020 a,b). In 2020, chapters will be developed for short-leaved dudleya, Orcutt's spineflower, and willowy monardella. These plans are developed with input and guidance provided by the Rare Plant Management Group Steering Committee and species working groups. Participants in these groups include landowners and managers, scientists, species experts, restoration specialists, seed collection and banking practitioners, and representatives from non-profit organizations and wildlife agencies. These plans are based on the latest scientific information for species on habitat relationships, ecology, genetics, seed collection guidelines, and best management practices. Occurrence-specific management recommendations are based on working group input and multiple years of Inspect and Manage monitoring data on population status, habitat associations and threats. These are living documents as new species chapters are added as they are developed and existing chapters are revised when new information becomes available or management actions are completed, and new recommendations are needed.
SAN DIEGO THORNMINT ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Project will expand and enhance three populations of San Diego thornmint (ACIL) on San Diego Habitat Conservancy managed properties. Project main goals are to improve ACIL habitat, and increase the ACIL seed bank to reduce the likelihood of extirpation. This project is partially funded by SANDAG TransNet EMP Land Management Grant #S1125501.
San Diego Thornmint Genetic Analysis
Genetic studies were performed on San Diego Thornmint to help inform restoration practices. In this project, plant material was collected from a number of populations, a collection of seeds was gathered to obtain a representative sample of genetic diversity, a conduction of analysis of rangewide ploidy and isozomes was performed, and quarterly and annual reports were given to indicate progress and accomplishments. The Center for Natural Lands Management (CNLM), National Forest Genetics Laboratory of the USDA Forest Service, and the Applied Ecology Division of the Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global designed and conducted the studies. Project partially funded by SANDAG TransNet EMP Land Management Grant #5001964
San Diego Thornmint Restoration
The goal of the project is to improve and expand areas occupied by the San Diego thornmint (MSP Category SO [Significant occurrence(s) at risk of loss from MSPA]) within Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP) Fortuna through restoration and enhancement of degraded habitat. This program addresses the immediate needs of thornmint within the MTRP by building on the on-going City weed treatment effort (based on SANDAG-funded CBI protocols to address Brachypodium distachyon) to address loss and degradation of existing thornmint habitat due to an increase of invasive plants and drought. Activities included in this program consist of herbicide treatment, thornmint and other native seed collection, seed bulking and redistribution, vegetation monitoring, photo monitoring, and thornmint monitoring. The methodologies used in conjunction with this proposal are similar to those used to restore approximately .25 acres of Pogogyne nudiuscula (Otay Mesa Mint) vernal pool habitat located in Otay Mesa. This project is consistent with the management objectives and actions prescribed in CBl's / SDMMP's Adaptive Management Framework for the Endangered San Diego Thornmint, the MTRP Natural Resources Management Plan, and the City of San Diego MHPA - Eastern Area MSCP Subarea Plan. Herbicide weed treatment within the thornmint population at MTRP Fortuna last occurred in 2014 and 2015.
Valley Fire Rare Plant Discovery Surveys
A project between the SDMMP and US Forest Service to establish and prioritize survey areas on Conserved Lands within the perimeter of the 2020 Valley Fire to document whether historic occurrences are extant and to discover new occurrences for 18 rare plant species. In 2022, AECOM and Conservation Biology Institute botanists surveyed areas for 18 target rare plant species and mapped the spatial extent of each new occurrence, counted or estimated the occurrence population size, and collected voucher specimens. They also photographed each new occurrence from a georeferenced location that captured a representative view of the occurrence. Botanists created a species list for the areas surveyed within the Valley Fire footprint. These areas included locations where rare plants were detected and mapped and negative data point areas where rare plants were not detected. In 2023, botanists shall again conduct surveys on suitable habitat on USFS lands burned in the 2020 Valley Fire. Results from these surveys should lead to a greater understanding of post-fire rare plant composition. In 2023, botanists may see species that did not emerge in the first year of surveys, and species found in the first year of surveys may have expanded their range. The 18 rare plant species included in the surveys are: San Diego thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia), Marvin's allium (Allium marvinii), Western spleenwort (Asplenium vespertinum), Deane's milkvetch (Astragalus deanei), Encinitas baccharis (Baccharis vanessae), San Diego goldenstar (Bloomeria clevelandii), Orcutt's brodiaea (Brodiaea orcuttii), Lakeside ceanothus (Ceanothus cyaneus), San Miguel savory (Clinopodium chandleri), Variegated dudleya (Dudleya variegata), Mission Canyon bluecup (Githopsis diffusa filicaulis), Ramona horkelia (Horkelia truncata), Heart-leaved pitcher sage (Lepechinia cardiophylla), Felt-leaved pitcher sage (Monardella hypoleuca lanata), Chaparral nolina (Nolina cismontana), Gander's ragwort (Packera ganderi), Moreno currant (Ribes canthariforme), and Parry's tetracoccus (Tetracoccus dioicus).
File name Lead Author Year Type
2001 MSCP RARE PLANT SURVEY AND MONITORING REPORT 2002 report
2012 Biological Monitoring Status Report Crestridge Ecological Reserve and South Crest Properties Conservation Biology Institute 2012 report
A Report of Genetic Sample Collections and Curation for Six Rare Plants within the San Diego MSPA San Diego County, California Mulligan, Margaret 2018 report
Acanthomintha ilicifolia (San Diego thornmint) 5-Year review: Summary and Evaluation 2009 report
Adaptive Management Framework for the Endangered San Diego Thornmint, Acanthomintha ilicifolia, San Diego County, California Conservation Biology Institute 2014 report
Arthropod Ecosystem Services as Indicators of Ecosystem Health and Resiliency for Conservation Management and Climate Change Planning Marschalek, Dan; Deutschman, Douglas 2016 report
Back Country Land Trust San Diego Thornmint and Quino Checkerspot Butterfly Habitat Restoration Project Final Report 2016 report
Biological Monitoring Status Report for Crestridge Ecological Reserve and South Crest Properties 2012 report
City of Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan Annual Report and Monitoring Summary Year 7, Nov. 2010 - October 2011 2012 report
County of San Diego MSCP Monitoring Summary Report January 1998 - June 2007 County of San Diego 2007 report
Direct and Indirect Effects of Precipitation, Nitrogen, and Management on Acanthomintha ilicifolia Rice, Kyle 2017 powerpoint presentation
DRAFT San Diego Thornmint Working Group November 10, 2010 Meeting Notes Center for Natural Lands Management; Eckhoff, John; Gordon-Reedy, Patricia; Kelly, Mike; Klein, Michael; Landis, Frank; McConnell, Patrick; Miller, Betsy; Osborne, Meredith; Principe, Zack; Remple, Ron; Snapp-Cook, Jonathan; Vinje, Jessie 2010 workshop summary
EMP Quarterly Progress Report 2 1.1.24 to 3.31.24 2024 report
EMP Quarterly Progress Report 3 4.1.24 to 6.30.24.pdf 2024 report
EMP Quarterly Progress Report SDHC Thornmint S1125501_Apr 1-Jun 30 2024.docx Rivas, Vince 2024 report
EMP Quarterly Progress Report SDHC Thornmint S1125501_Jan 1-Mar 31 2024 report
Enhancing the Resilience of Edaphic Endemic Plants 2018 report
Final Report Covered and Invasive Species Management: Crestridge Ecological Reserve and South Crest Properties 2012 report
Final Report for the Rice Canyon Sensitive Plant Species Management Project (SANDAG Grant Number 5005508; RECON Number 9429) Dodero, Mark 2021 report
Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan for the Crestridge Ecological Reserve- 2002 2002 report
Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan for the Crestridge Ecological Reserve- 2009 2009 report
Management Strategic Plan (MSP) 2015 Monitoring Protocol for Rare Plant Occurrences on Conserved Lands in Western San Diego County San Diego Management and Monitoring Program 2015 report
Management Strategic Plan Framework Rare Plant Management Plan for Conserved Lands in Western San Diego County 2021 report
Management Strategic Plan Seed Collection, Banking, and Bulking Plan for Conserved Lands in Western San Diego County 2021 report
MSCP MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT IN THE CITY OF SAN DIEGO 2011 other
Otay Mesa Rare Plants Final Report 2022 report
Population Genomic Surveys for Six Rare Plant Species in San Diego County, California Milano, Elizabeth; Vandergast, Amy 2018 report
Project Summary for Genetic studies of San Diego thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia) to inform restoration practices 2014 report
Rare Plant Genomics Methods and Timeline Vandergast, Amy 2016 other
San Diego thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia) 2009-2010 Fact Sheet 2010 fact sheet
San Diego Thornmint Seed and Common Garden Study Final Report 2012 report
San Diego Thornmint Seed Collection, Expansion, and Buffering Prentice-Dekker, Brooke 2020 powerpoint presentation
SDNHM 2018 Rare Plant Genetic Sampling Final 2018 report
Spatially explicit and multi-sourced genetic information is critical for conservation of an endangered plant species, San Diego Thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia) DeWoody, Jennifer; Rogers, Deborah; Hipkins, Valerie ; Endress, Bryan 2018 journal article
State of the Regional Preserve System in Western San Diego County Preston, Kris; Perkins, Emily; Brown, Chris; McCutcheon, Sarah; Bernabe, Annabelle; Luciani, Emilie; Kus, Barbara; Wynn, Susan 2022 report
Summary Results of Rare Plant Field Monitoring City of San Diego MSCP 2009 fact sheet
TransNet_ProgressReport2_CitySD-DenneryCanyon.pdf Allen, Sara report
TransNet_ProgressReport3_CitySD-DenneryCanyon.pdf Allen, Sara report
TransNet_ProgressReport4_CitySD-DenneryCanyon.pdf Allen, Sara report
Year 2 Annual Report for the Otay Tarplant and San Diego Thornmint Restoration and Enhancement Program (SANDAG Grant Number 5001590; RECON Number 5662) 2013 report
Year 3 Final Annual Report for the Central City Preserve Otay Tarplant and San Diego Thornmint Restoration and Enhancement Program 2014 report
Year 3 Final Annual Report for the Central City Preserve Otay Tarplant and San Diego Thornmint Restoration and Enhancement Program 2014 report
Year 3 Final Annual Report for the Central City Preserve Otay Tarplant and San Diego Thornmint Restoration and Enhancement Program 2014 report
Year 3 Final Annual Report for the San Diego Thornmint Expansion Project (SANDAG Grant Number 5004957; RECON Number 8378) 2020 report

Current Distribution Rangewide

Endemic to San Diego County, California, and northwestern Baja California, Mexico [1].

Known Populations in San Diego County

Forty-six occurrences on conserved lands in MU 2 (El Dorado Hills), 3 (Crestridge Ecological Reserve, Dennery Ranch, Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area, San Diego National Wildlife Refuge, Otay Lakes Cornerstone Lands, City of Chula Vista Central City Preserve, South Crest Properties, Bonita Meadows, Flying Dolphin Trust, Otay Mountain Ecological Reserve, Rancho Jamul Ecological Reserve, Wright's Field), 4 (Canada de San Vicente, City of Poway Open Space, Cleveland National Forest, Mission Trails Regional Park, Simon Preserve, Sycamore Canyon and Goodan Ranch Preserves), 5 (Ramona Grasslands Preserve), and 6 (Black Mountain Open Space Park, Carlsbad Oaks North Habitat Conservation Area, Emerald Point Open Space, Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, Manchester Mitigation Bank, Rancho La Costa Habitat Conservation Area).

List Status

FE and CE [2].

Habitat Affinities

Occurs in openings within coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and native grassland [3; cited in 1, 4]. Restricted to gabbro soils derived from igneous rock, and gray calcareous clay soils derived from soft calcareous sandstone [5; cited from 1]. Occurs on gentle (0-25 degrees) southeast to west facing slopes [1]. Elevation range is 10-960 meters [2]. Characterized by a low density of forbs and geophytes, and a low density or absence of shrubs [1].

Taxonomy and Genetics

Inbreeding was identified as a problem for small populations, which can have significantly lower germination rates due to high levels of homozygosity [6]. Has significant genetic structure [9]. Differentiation among populations is consistent with gene flow decreasing as a function of geographic distance. Longitudinal and elevational distance more strongly related to genetic differentiation than latitudinal distance. Potential polyploidy, but further confirmation needed.

Life History Demography

Annual aromatic herb in the Lamiaceae (mint family) [1].

Seasonal Phenology

Winter annual that germinates in late winter to early spring and flowers in April and May [1]. Seeds mature in late spring and early summer.

Pollination Seed Dispersal

Breeding and mating systems are unknown but a study of other congeneric species indicates some level of self‐compatibility and autogamous seed production [7; cited from 1]. The most common insect visitors for other congeneric species are medium‐ and large‐sized bees, particularly bumble bees. Excessive ground thatch may interfere with insect visitation and also nesting of potential pollinators such as ground‐nesting bees [8, 9]. Species has a short-lived, above-ground seed bank, with very little seed stored in the soil [10].

Threats

USFWS 2009 5-Year Review determined urbanization as the most significant threat [1]. Proximity of development to occurrences leads to nonnative plant competition, trampling, fragmentation, and increased isolation. In 2009, 62 percent of occurrences were adjacent to development, cutslopes, agricultural fields, golf courses, ornamental landscaping, and fuel modification zones. Road construction, vehicles, grazing, foot traffic, recreational activities, and erosion are also threats [2]. Recreation occurring at over 40 percent of the extant occurrences is a potential threat because trail use on wet clay lens soils can cause deep ruts [1]. Particularly sensitive to competition from nonnative plants, such as purple false-brome, that alter habitat [9]. Fire can negatively impact habitat due to invasions by nonnative fire following plants [1].Climate change may affect longterm viability of current habitat due to: (1) drier conditions that may result in a lower percent germination and smaller population sizes; (2) higher temperatures may inhibit germination [10]; (3) a shift in the timing of the annual rainfall may favor nonnative species [1]; (4) the timing of pollinator life-cycles may become out-of-sync with timing of flowering; and (5) drier conditions may result in increased fire frequency, making the habitat more vulnerable to the threats of subsequent erosion and nonnative/native plant invasion.

Special Considerations:

Under a Local Assistance Grant from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Conservation Biology Institute, in partnership with the San Diego Management and Monitoring Program, conducted a comprehensive review of existing information, past research, and current management and monitoring for San Diego thornmint and developed an Adaptive Management Framework for future research and monitoring [11]. Limitations to accurately assessing population status are: (1) lack of recent census data, (2) a comprehensive threats assessment, and (3) accurate mapping. These limitations are being addressed through the MSP Inspect and Manage objective with regionally coordinated monitoring efforts using a standardized protocol to assess population status, habitat, and threats [12]. In September 2014 the Center for Natural Lands Management completed an Environmental Mitigation Program Grant "Species-specific Management: Genetic studies of San Diego thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia) to inform restoration practices" [9]. Recommendations for protecting the genetic integrity and diversity are: (1) Support natural regeneration of large populations, (2) Use management to rapidly increase the population size of any recently small populations, (3) Use collections of historically small populations to enhance population size, (4) Record and maintain records of any movement of plant material, (5) Design seed collections to maximize genetic diversity within population, (6) Keep seed collections separate at least by site if collection within large population.

Literature Sources

[1]  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2009. “Acanthomintha Ilicifolia ( San Diego Thornmint ) 5-Year Review : Summary and Evaluation.” Carlsbad, California.

[2] CNPS, Rare Plant Program. 2016. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants (online edition, v8-02). California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, CA. http://www.rareplants.cnps.org, accessed 29 August 2016.

[3] Beauchamp, R.M. 1986. A Flora of San Diego County, California. National City, CA: Sweetwater River Press.

[4] Reiser, C.H. 2001. Rare Plants of San Diego County. San Diego, CA: Aquifer Press.

[5] Oberbauer, T. A., and J.M. Vanderwier. 1991. “The Vegetation and Geologic Substrate Association and Its Effect on Development in Southern California.” In Environmental Perils, San Diego Region, edited by P.L. Abbott and W.J. Elliot, 208–9. San Diego, CA: San Diego Association of Geologists.

[6] Menges, E.S. 1990. “Population Viability Analysis for an Endangered Plant.” Conservation Biology 4: 52–62.

[7] Steek, D.M. 1995. “Reproductive Biology of a Rare California Annual, Acanthomintha Duttonii, and Its Congener, Acanthomintha Obovata Ssp. Cordata.” University of California, Davis.

[8] Klein, M.W. 2009. “Pollinator Study on Lakeside Ceanothus (Ceanothus Cyaneus) and San Diego Thornmint (Acanthomintha Ilicifolia).” Contract No. PO650018. Sacramento, CA.

[9] Rogers, D. 2014. “EMP Grant - Final Report: Species-Specific Management: Genetic Studies of San Diego Thornmint (Acanthomintha Ilicifolia) to Inform Restoration Practices.”

[10] Bauder, E.T., and J. Sakrison. 1999. “Mechanisms of Persistence of San Diego Thornmint (Acanthomintha Ilicifolia). FG7634R5.” Borrego Springs, CA.

[11] Conservation Biology Institute. 2014. “Adaptive Management Framework for the Endangered San Diego Thornmint , Acanthomintha Ilicifolia , San Diego County , California.” San Diego, CA.

[12] Rempel, R., Y. C. Moore, K. Preston, and E. Perkins. 2013. “Management Strategic Plan for Conserved Lands in Western San Diego County.”