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Y-DNA Haplogroup Atlas

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Haplogroup Q-L941

Q2-L941

Macro-haplogroup
Q
Parent clade
Q-L933
Formed (estimate)
c. 14,000–17,000 years before present
TMRCA (estimate)
c. 8,000–10,000 years ago

Overview

Q-L941 is the northernmost structured branch of Q2 and represents an ancient population that adapted to Arctic and sub-Arctic ecological zones. Its geographic and archaeological signatures indicate ties to early Holocene tundra–forest transition groups. L941 is notable for its connection to ancestral populations inhabiting the lower Yenisei, Taimyr and western Arctic river systems.

Geographic distribution

Most frequent among Nganasan, Dolgan and some Evenki groups in far northern Siberia. Smaller occurrences are found in Chukchi–Koryak influenced regions and northern Yakutia due to ancient northward expansions.

Ancient DNA

  • Ancient Arctic individuals from the Taimyr Peninsula exhibit ancestry patterns closely aligned with L941-related signatures.
  • The clade’s age corresponds to the early Holocene colonization of the Arctic tundra following glacial retreat.
  • Its distribution mirrors early reindeer-hunting and riverine Arctic subsistence strategies.

Phylogeny & subclades

L941 forms shallow but distinct subbranches aligned with specific Arctic river systems. Population sizes remained low, leading to strong drift.

  • Q-L941*

Notes & context

Q-L941 is crucial for reconstructing ancient paternal structure in Arctic Siberia and the demographic history of early tundra populations.