Species: Pediocactus nigrispinus

Members of <i>Pediocactus </i> produce dry, dull-colored fruit which are presumed not to be dispersed by birds or rodents, but rather wind or water. Little variation exists within populations. These populations can be separated by distances of several miles even when there is suitable habitat. Further, dispersal within populations appears to be staggered throughout the growing season from shortly after seeds are produced in June to fall. This dispersal strategy may be disadventageous for the species, however, populations in the genus when left undisturbed seem to be healthy with all age classes represented (Heil et al. 1981).