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Ovipositing butterfly (Pieris brassicae L.) distinguishes between aqueous extracts of two strains of Cannabis sativa L. and THC and CBD

Nature volume 286, pages 56–59 (1980)Cite this article

Abstract

The ovipositing female butterfly has proved a useful tool for separating closely related strains of various plant species. Using the large white (Pieris brassicae), we have been able to distinguish between the Turkish and Mexican strains of Cannabis sativa, and demonstrate that the butterfly is sufficiently sensitive to differentiate between purified THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) – two substances which taste and smell alike to the human observer.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Ashton Wold, Peterborough, PE8 5LZ, UK

    Miriam Rothschild

  2. School of Pharmacy, University of London, Brunswick Square, London, WC1, UK

    J. W. Fairbairn

Authors
  1. Miriam Rothschild
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  2. J. W. Fairbairn
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Rothschild, M., Fairbairn, J. Ovipositing butterfly (Pieris brassicae L.) distinguishes between aqueous extracts of two strains of Cannabis sativa L. and THC and CBD. Nature 286, 56–59 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1038/286056a0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/286056a0

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