technique that allows me to better read the phenotype without stressing and modifying the structure of the plant

If all the clones are from the same plant, there will be no phenotypic variation.

If you plan to prune further, avoid removing the plant’s main fan leaves at the top. Keep in mind that each node relies on its attached leaf for energy, removing it will slow the node’s growth until it can gather enough sunlight independently. You can safely remove some lower leaves or nodes, but always preserve the top nodes for potential cloning, especially if you discover a desirable phenotype later on you need health growth.

A Net Energy Sink is what it's called and than after it's been grown to the point is can produce in the first place again not producing an ounce of energy till then so early removal moves energy threw tuger pressure. A leaf that consumes more energy (via respiration) than it produces (via photosynthesis) is referred to as a net heterotrophic leaf or, more commonly in plant physiology, as a net energy sink. Sink Leaf: Early in development, young leaves are "sinks" because they import carbohydrates from mature leaves to grow. Net Heterotrophic: As the leaf matures, its net photosynthetic rate increases until it becomes a "source," producing more energy than it consumes. Senescing Leaf: Old or damaged leaves can also become net consumers of energy (sinks) before they are shed, as their photosynthetic machinery breaks down faster than their respiration rate.

I was taught to cut the leaves down in the 90s as it helps them to put more energy towards the roots.This comes from what is known as The Bible of Cannabis Horticulture "Indoor Marijuana Horticultural".Which sold over 1 million copies written by one of the most trusted names in the industry.Jorge Cerventes.If I remember its to stop the transpiration as it takes a lot of energy,it was 30yrs ago but you see all the industry big wigs do it along with the big grow ops in Cali so I know who I listen to.Where did you hear it from?

That would be a net negative for sure. Good way to slow everything down by removing even more potential photosynthesis and transpiration.