Physical and Chemical Features of Cannabis Plants Grown in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from Seeds of Known Origin - Part II: Second Generation Studies

• NCJ Number: 119769
• Journal: Bulletin on Narcotics Volume: 35 Issue: 1 Dated: (January-March 1983) Pages: 51-62
• Author(s): P B Baker; T A Gough; B J Taylor
• Date Published: 1983
• Length: 12 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: Austria

Annotation

The origin of seized cannabis in the United Kingdom, whether it was imported or produced illegally in the United Kingdom, might be of considerable forensic importance.

Abstract

The authors studied the physical and chemical features of second generation cannabis grown in the United Kingdom and from seeds imported from known geographical areas. In general, the physical appearance of the second generation plants resembled their parents as those produced from the second generation plants were not usually distinguishable from the first generation plants. There were some exceptions to the similarities in the cannabinoid patterns. The second generation cannabis plants produced significantly higher yields, but the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) contents were lower. In addition, the tetrocannabinolic acid (THCA) to THC ratios were much lower in the second generation plants, but higher in the fresh imported cannabis. 2 tables, 16 references. (Author abstract modified)