Integrated Biology for the Development of Tree and Forest Diversity (BioForA)

BioForA brings together expertise in genetics, genomics and physiology applied to the study of forest trees. The research carried out aims to enhance the value of forest genetic resources with a view to sustainable timber and biomass production, while taking into account the ecological impact of domesticated populations on the ecosystem and a changing climatic context. BioForA conducts genetic improvement programmes on 6 forest species (Douglas fir, larch, Scots pine, ash, cherry, poplar) and is involved in innovative strategies for selection and dissemination of genetic progress. It is involved in the evaluation and management of genetic diversity as well as in the study of interactions between improved varieties and corresponding wild populations, thus helping to define strategies for the management and conservation of forest genetic resources. In order to meet these objectives, an integrative biology approach is being developed mainly on the poplar model to better understand the genetic determinism of the complex traits of interest involved in tree development (phenology, growth, wood properties), its adaptation to environmental constraints (resistance to pathogens, water use efficiency), thus contributing to the construction of the phenotype.

It is based in Orléans and includes 3 teams: 

• Molecular Physiology of Wood Formation (BOIS) team - Deciphering the molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of wood and in defining its chemical and mechanical properties, that will determine its future use.
• Genetics, Adaptation and Improvement team (GA2)
• Conservation and Reproduction of Forest Trees team (CORE) - Understanding the mechanisms involved in reproduction, whether sexual or asexual, as well as the conservation and development of forest genetic resources.

Facilities and main equipment:

• PHENOBOIS platform: Phenotyping of the physio-chemical properties of wood and tree hydraulics
• LICA tree cell engineering laboratory
• Forest Biological Resources (RARe infrastructure)
• Genotyping centre