Autosomal Sex Modifiers

Autosomal Sex Modifiers are genetic factors located on non-sex chromosomes that influence sexual phenotype expression in dioecious cannabis plants. Unlike sex-determination loci on the Y chromosome, these modifiers can shift the ratio of male to female expression or produce intersex or hermaphroditic phenotypes. Breeders and researchers have documented heritable patterns where certain autosomal alleles suppress or enhance female flower development, even in genetically female (XX) plants. These modifiers are particularly relevant in breeding programs seeking to stabilize feminized seed lines or understand sex stability across generations. The inheritance patterns of autosomal sex modifiers remain incompletely mapped in cannabis, making them an active area of genetic investigation.

Breeders working with feminized seed production rely on understanding autosomal sex modifiers to develop stable female-only lines and reduce the frequency of hermaphrodites in seed crops. Knowledge of these modifiers helps predict sex phenotype segregation ratios and design more predictable crossing strategies.