Overview
O-F79 is a major downstream branch of O2a2b1-M134 and forms the root of one of the largest Neolithic paternal expansions in East Asia. Genetic studies describe O-F79 and its descendants as one of the "Neolithic super-grandfather" lineages, whose rapid star-like expansion is linked to the rise of large farming populations in the Yellow River basin. This clade represents a key component of the demographic processes that shaped the core paternal structure of the Han Chinese and several neighboring groups.
Geographic distribution
Today O-F79 and its downstream clusters are widespread in northern and central China, with notable frequencies in provinces such as Henan, Shandong, Shanxi, Hebei and Shaanxi. They are also present in Korea and Japan, and at lower frequencies among various Southeast Asian and minority populations influenced by north Chinese migrations.
Ancient DNA
- Ancient DNA from Neolithic and Bronze Age sites in northern China has revealed O2a2b1a2a related lineages that sit upstream of F79.
- Population genetic work shows that the F79 cluster expanded during the mid-Holocene in parallel with intensification of millet agriculture and growth of large settled communities in the Central Plain.
- The strong founder effect pattern of F79 and its descendants fits the "super-grandfather" model proposed for some Chinese paternal lineages.
Phylogeny & subclades
Within the O2a2b1-M134 complex, F79 marks the root of O2a2b1a2a. It is the direct ancestor of O-F46 and, further downstream, O-F48 and additional branches such as F2887 and related clades. Together these branches form one of the best defined star-like expansions in the O2 phylogeny.
Notes & context
O-F79 is a central node for understanding Neolithic male founder effects in northern China and is often highlighted in studies that discuss the concentration of Y chromosomes in a small number of ancient ancestors.
References & external links