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Y-DNA Haplogroup Atlas

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Haplogroup B-M192

B-M192 (YFull B2b1)

Macro-haplogroup
B
Parent clade
B-M112
Formed (estimate)
c. 35,000–50,000 years before present
TMRCA (estimate)
c. 10,000–18,000 years ago

Overview

Haplogroup B-M192 is one of the principal radiations under B-M112 and is strongly associated with Central African rainforest forager groups. Its distribution and branching patterns align with long-term ecological stability in dense forest environments. B-M192 appears to have experienced moderate internal diversification during the Late Pleistocene and early Holocene, but without the expansive demographic shifts observed in agricultural populations. The lineage’s persistence in highly localized populations highlights the deep structure of African paternal diversity.

Geographic distribution

B-M192 is concentrated among Pygmy-associated groups in Cameroon, Gabon and the Central African Republic, with notable representation among the Biaka and Baka. It also occurs in the northern Democratic Republic of Congo and appears at low levels in Rwanda and Uganda among groups with partial forager heritage. Rare occurrences in Southern Africa reflect ancient shared ancestry with Khoisan-derived populations.

Ancient DNA

  • Shum Laka samples exhibit B-M192 related signatures, confirming its presence in Central African foragers for several millennia.
  • Ancient DNA from Malawi indicates that B-M192-like lineages extended into eastern Africa during the Late Pleistocene.
  • Holocene-era samples in the Congo Basin carry lineages phylogenetically close to B-M192, supporting its long-term regional stability.

Phylogeny & subclades

B-M192 includes several downstream branches that appear to correspond to localized forager populations. These microclades are typically geographically restricted and show limited external admixture. While broad-scale internal structure is evident, fine-level resolution continues to improve through whole Y sequencing.

  • B-M192*
  • Localized B-M192 regional clusters
  • Potential microclades revealed by ongoing Y sequencing

Notes & context

B-M192 is essential for identifying genetic continuity in Central African forager groups. Its distribution underscores the resilience and isolation of forest populations during climatic oscillations and later agro-pastoral expansions.