Genetics Basics
In cannabis, as in all living organisms, genes are DNA segments that encode traits. Each plant inherits two copies of every gene—one from each parent. These copies can be the same (homozygous) or different (heterozygous).
- Allele: a variant of a gene (e.g.,
Tfor THC‑dominant,Cfor CBD‑dominant). - Dominant allele: expressed when present; often associated with a stronger phenotype.
- Recessive allele: expressed only when no dominant allele is present.
Popular Strain Genetics
| Strain | THC Gene (Top 3) | CBD Gene (Top 3) |
|---|---|---|
| OG Wife | T T T | C C C |
| Girl Scout Cookies | T T C | C C T |
| Blueberry | T C C | C T T |
| Jack‑Heron | T T C | C C T |
Interactive Allele Cross
Pick alleles for two parents and see the genotype distribution of their offspring.
Glossary
- Genotype
- The genetic makeup of an organism (e.g.,
TT,TC). - Phenotype
- The observable traits (e.g., THC‑rich aroma).
- Hybridization
- Crossing two distinct genetic lines to combine desired traits.
- Strain
- A cultivated variety with a unique combination of genes.