Overview
G2a7a is a branch of the G2a7 lineage that appears to represent a Bronze Age demographic layer distributed across the greater Armenian Highlands and the northern Mesopotamian piedmont. Its ancestral populations likely participated in cultural horizons tied to early metallurgy, herding systems, and highland–lowland exchange routes. The lineage shows a demographic pattern of moderate expansion, suggesting involvement in the sustained settlement networks of eastern Anatolia and Transcaucasia without undergoing the explosive radiations observed in some G2a2 branches.
Geographic distribution
Modern carriers cluster in Armenia, eastern Turkey (Van–Muş region), the Zagros foothills of western Iran, and northern Iraq. Low-frequency occurrences appear in Georgia, Azerbaijan, and central Anatolia. The distribution strongly aligns with highland settlement continuity from the Chalcolithic onward.
Ancient DNA
- Kura-Araxes-associated ancient males show haplotypes partially compatible with G2a7-derived clades.
- Late Chalcolithic samples from eastern Anatolia share genetic affinity with G2a7a-bearing modern populations.
- Direct G2a7a ancient assignment remains pending additional high-coverage Y-chromosome data.
Phylogeny & subclades
Defined by BY19524, G2a7a appears as the primary known sub-branch of G2a7. Internal structure includes minor regional clusters among Armenian, Kurdish, and Azeri groups. Its position in the G2a phylogeny places it among highland West Asian lineages, sitting parallel to G2a3 and G2a6 radiations.
- G2a7a* (basal)
- G2a7a1 (BY19536-associated)
- Private Armenian/Kurdish micro-branches
Notes & context
G2a7a highlights a highland-focused demographic layer that contributed to Bronze Age pastoral and metallurgical expansions. Its continuity reflects the persistence of highland West Asian paternal strata through millennia of cultural change.
References & external links