Overview
C2c represents a Paleo-Siberian and Beringian-oriented lineage of haplogroup C2, associated with late Pleistocene forager groups in the Far North. This branch preserves signals from populations that thrived in the subarctic and arctic regions of Siberia, extending into areas involved in the early peopling of Beringia. Its structure suggests deep continuity among ancient high-latitude groups preceding the Holocene climatic transitions.
Geographic distribution
C2c occurs mainly among northern Siberian populations including Chukchi, Koryak, Yukaghir and some Evenk groups. It also appears at low frequencies among communities near the Bering Strait. Occasional presence in Alaska reflects ancient Beringian connections.
Ancient DNA
- Upper Paleolithic remains from the Beringia–Siberia region show early C2c-related ancestry.
- Ancient Paleo-Siberian genomes carry signatures aligned with upstream C2c branches.
- Some pre-Neolithic individuals from the Russian Far East display paternal markers linked to the C2c lineage.
Phylogeny & subclades
C2c is defined by Z1338 and related SNPs such as F3918. It is a sister branch to C2a and C2b but remains at lower diversity due to long-term population isolation in extreme northern environments.
Notes & context
C2c is essential for understanding the genetic history of Paleo-Siberian groups and the populations associated with the early Beringian corridor.
References & external links