GEN4X

The GEN4X is made up of all types of trials known as "common gardens", which make it possible to compare species or several genetic units of the same species (geographical origins, families, clones) under various controlled environmental conditions. These common gardens sites were originally designed to study the natural diversity of different forest species and to create improved reforestation materials. GEN4X Network stands for "Forest Genetics Network for Research and Experimentation"; it includes all types of trials from arboretums to clonal-testing and population-improvement sites. The GEN4X Network hosts an exceptional inter- and intra-specific heritage. Since the first plantations were set up in the 1960s, nearly a thousand test plots have been installed on more than 2,000 ha, representing about 2.5 million planted trees. Plant material from several dozen species has been tested, of which about fifteen are currently being closely monitored (oak, poplar, cherry, beech and ash for deciduous trees; and maritime pine, Douglas fir, larch, Scots pine, silver fir, Mediterranean pine, cypress and cedar for conifers). The main scientific issues addressed by the Network are related to the mitigation and adaptation of forests to climate change, the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, and protecting forests from health risks. The Network offers its services for experimentation, observation, conservation of biological resources as well as data production and management. The Network's experiments have been set up throughout mainland France and are managed by the various experimental units (UE) of INRAE.