TExNet Workshop held in Nuuk to initiate first dataset analysis

The Tundra Exclosure Network (TExNet) is a coordinated research initiative under the UArctic Thematic Network on Herbivory that aims at understanding the role of herbivore diversity on the functioning of tundra ecosystems. To do this, TExNet has established a network of experimental sites across the tundra, where herbivore diversity is manipulated using fences of different sizes, that allow isolating the effects of different herbivores. For example, by using large-mesh fences that prevent access by large herbivores like reindeer, and thin-mesh fences that also prevent access by smaller herbivores like lemmings, we can see if large and small herbivores cause different changes in plants or other ecosystem components. However, setting up an experimental site requires an initial investment and a longer-term commitment, which can limit the number of participating sites. To expand the geographical spread of the study, an observational protocol was proposed, that required a single visit to the sites, while still collecting data comparable to data collected in the first year of the experiment.

During 2022-2024, a large team of collaborators across the Arctic has collected data on plant and herbivore communities, at six TExNET experimental sites and at 21 additional sites using the observational protocol. Last May 14-19, 2025, part of the TExNet team met in Nuuk to compile and start analysing the first dataset collected across TExNet sites. The workshop was hosted by the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, and took place in Nuuk for the first two days. The last three days part of the team went on a writing retreat to Kapisillit and had the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes while looking for herbivores.

Read the original news and find more information about the project on the Herbivory website.