Overview
This lineage represents the most widespread Amazonian M848-derived expansion, associated with the dispersal of Tupi–Guarani-speaking peoples across vast areas of Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, and coastal South America. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Tupi expansion coincided with horticultural intensification, riverine settlement growth, and large-scale cultural transmission networks. Q-M848 Tupi lineages played a crucial role in reshaping the genetic landscape of eastern and southern South America during the late Holocene.
Geographic distribution
High frequencies among Tupi–Guarani-speaking groups across Brazil (Xingu, Madeira, Tocantins, coastal zones). Present among Guaraní communities of Paraguay and Bolivia. Secondary presence in coastal Brazil reflects later expansions and interactions.
Ancient DNA
- Ancient remains from southwestern Amazonia show ancestry patterns tied to early Tupi horticultural populations.
- Genetic continuity between ancient horticulturalists and modern Tupi suggests demographic stability.
- Evidence links this lineage to the dispersal of Tupi–Guarani ceramic traditions and settlement systems.
Phylogeny & subclades
Forms multiple subbranches associated with major river systems (Xingu, Tapajós, Madeira). Some branches show recent founder events among specific Tupi subgroups.
- Xingu-Tupi branch
- Coastal Tupi-Guarani branch
- Madeira-Tupi branch
Notes & context
A central lineage for understanding late Holocene expansions in Amazonia and the widespread Tupi–Guarani dispersal.
References & external links