Overview
O1b1a2-M95 is one of the most widespread paternal lineages in Southeast Asia and South Asia. It is strongly associated with Austroasiatic-speaking populations, including Khmer, Mon, Vietnamese Muong groups and especially the Munda populations of India. The spread of M95 reflects two major prehistoric expansions: early Neolithic farming in mainland Southeast Asia and later Austroasiatic migrations into eastern and central India. M95 represents a rare example of a Southeast Asian paternal lineage achieving major demographic presence inside the Indian subcontinent.
Geographic distribution
Very common among Austroasiatic-speaking groups of Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand. High frequencies in Indian Munda tribes, and moderate presence in northeastern India, Bangladesh and Myanmar. Also appears in small percentages in Malaysia and southern China.
Ancient DNA
- Ancient DNA from Neolithic Southeast Asia has revealed ancestry consistent with M95-bearing populations.
- Genetic evidence from India suggests a migration from Southeast Asia during the early to mid-Holocene.
- M95 connects early Southeast Asian agriculturalists with later South Asian tribal populations.
Phylogeny & subclades
M95 forms the dominant branch under O1b1. It contains many downstream lineages forming complex networks across South and Southeast Asia. The clade's major radiations correspond to agriculturally driven expansions.
Notes & context
One of the most important paternal markers linking Southeast Asia and South Asia.
References & external links