Gabriel Aubry -- Custody in Jeopardy

Gabriel Aubry has been orderd to appear in Dependency Court because authorities are concerned about his ability to safely care for his child ... TMZ has learned.

Aubry is in court right now and the appearance was triggered by the L.A. County Dept. of Children and Family Services' investigation into allegations that Aubry is guilty of child endangerment.

Sources tell TMZ ... the DCFS investigation goes beyond an incident in which Gabriel allegedly pushed the nanny who was holding 3-year-old Nahla.

We're told DCFS is concerned about Nahla's safety in the care of Gabriel and that is why he was ordered to appear in Dependency Court.

We're told no ruling has been handed down ... yet.