Circadian Terpene Expression

Circadian terpene expression refers to the time-dependent fluctuation of volatile compounds in cannabis plants, where terpene profiles shift throughout the day and night cycle. Research suggests that terpene concentrations—particularly limonene, myrcene, and pinene—may vary based on light exposure, temperature cycles, and the plant's internal biological clock. This phenomenon is commonly observed in cultivation but remains understudied compared to static terpene profiling. Breeders and cultivators interested in optimizing harvest timing or understanding aroma stability often monitor these cyclical patterns. Documentation of circadian terpene behavior could inform selective breeding for consistent aromatic expression across phenotypes.

Breeders working on stable aroma profiles study circadian expression patterns to identify genotypes with resilient terpene production independent of environmental fluctuations. Understanding when and why terpene levels peak helps inform harvest timing strategies aimed at consistent end-product quality.