Genotype
Category: Scientific · Level: Expert
Genotype refers to the complete genetic makeup of a cannabis plant, which determines its potential traits and characteristics.
In plant biology, the genotype is the full genetic sequence of an organism — the DNA blueprint that encodes all potential traits. In cannabis, genotype determines the plant's potential cannabinoid biosynthesis pathways, terpene synthesis, morphology, disease resistance, and flowering characteristics. The relationship between genotype and expressed traits (phenotype) is mediated by environmental factors. Modern cannabis breeding programs use genomic tools including marker-assisted selection, DNA fingerprinting, and whole-genome sequencing to characterize and protect cultivar genetics. Genotyping is increasingly used in legal contexts for intellectual property protection and seed authentication.
Also known as
Cannabis genome, Plant genetics
Usage
- Industrial
- Scientific
Related terms
- Cultivar — A cultivar is a plant variety that has been selectively bred and maintained to exhibit consistent, reproducible characteristics.
- Phenotype — Phenotype refers to the observable physical and chemical characteristics of a cannabis plant that result from the interaction of its genetics (genotype) with the environment.
- Hybrid — A hybrid cannabis strain is a cultivar bred from crossbreeding indica and sativa genetics to combine specific traits from each.