A · BT · CT · CF · F · J · J1-M267 · J1-P58 · J1-L147.1 · J1-ZS1244

Haplogroup J1-ZS1244

Macro-haplogroup
J
Parent clade
J1-L147.1
Formed (estimate)
c. 4,600 to 6,000 years before present
TMRCA (estimate)
c. 1,200 to 2,000 years ago

Overview

J1-ZS1244 is a downstream branch of the Arabian-rooted J1-L147.1 expansion and originated among pastoral populations of the northern Arabian steppe during the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age. These populations operated within ecological systems shaped by desert wells, wadis and seasonal grazing niches, forming the demographic substrate that later gave rise to North Arabian tribal traditions. During the Bronze and Iron Age periods, ZS1244-bearing populations contributed to the emergence of regionally defined clan structures across the Hejaz, Najd and western Mesopotamia. Its phylogeny reflects multiple founder effects and localized tribal segmentation. Early Islamic movements broadened the distribution of certain downstream branches, specifically into Iraq and the Gulf.

Geographic distribution

Most common in Saudi Arabia and Iraq; moderate in Jordan and Syria; low elsewhere.

Ancient DNA

  • Bronze Age Levantine samples show upstream ancestry aligned with proto ZS1244.
  • Iron Age desert frontier individuals exhibit branching patterns consistent with early ZS1244.
  • Early Islamic remains across Arabia display downstream ZS1244 derivatives.

Phylogeny & subclades

A structured J1-L147.1 descendant shaped by pastoral mobility, desert tribalization and clan-based founder effects.

  • ZS1244*
  • Hejaz and Najd derivatives
  • Northern Arabian clusters

Notes & context

A lineage essential for reconstructing tribal expansions and demographic transitions in early North Arabian populations.