Terpene Mapping

Terpene mapping refers to the systematic identification and documentation of volatile aromatic compounds present in cannabis plants, typically using gas chromatography or similar analytical techniques. This practice emerged as breeders and researchers sought to understand the chemical profiles underlying different cultivar phenotypes and to standardize breeding objectives. Terpene mapping extends beyond simple aroma classification to encompass the full volatile organic compound (VOC) spectrum, including primary terpenes like myrcene and limonene alongside minor constituents. Breeders working with terpene mapping data can track how chemical profiles express across generations, helping establish consistency in breeding lines and identify chemotypes within ostensibly similar strain families. This approach has become foundational to modern cultivar development, enabling more precise selectio

Breeders use terpene mapping to identify and stabilize desired chemical profiles in crossing programs, allowing targeted selection for specific aromatic or volatile signatures. Detailed terpene data helps distinguish chemotypes, guide backcrossing decisions, and document heritability of compound ratios across offspring.