Overview
R1a-Y2632 is one of the primary downstream branches of R1a-Z2124 and represents a major component of Central Asian and eastern Iranian paternal ancestry. It formed during the Bronze Age among Andronovo-related populations inhabiting the Kazakh steppe and southern Siberia. Archaeologically, its carriers were connected to groups with high mobility, metalworking expertise and early horse culture.
During the Iron Age, Y2632 spread widely across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and the Altai region. Its expansion overlaps with early Saka and pre-Turkic nomadic tribes. Several branches show movement into Afghanistan, Iran and northern Pakistan, illustrating its role in Indo-Iranian ethnogenesis.
Today, Y2632 remains common across Central Asia and reflects multiple waves of steppe migrations.
Geographic distribution
Y2632 is frequent in Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. High frequencies occur among northern Afghans and certain Pashtun groups. Moderate levels appear in Iran and Pakistan. Smaller clusters occur across Altai, Xinjiang and Mongolia.
Ancient DNA
- Andronovo individuals show early Y2632 variation.
- Saka and Sarmatian burials in Kazakhstan include Y2632 subclades.
- Altai Iron Age cultures display ancestral Y2632 lines.
- Indo-Iranian associated Central Asian remains reveal Y2632 in multiple contexts.
- Tarim Basin individuals show potential phylogenetic links.
Phylogeny & subclades
Y2632 contains several Central Asian clusters including Y2639 and region-specific macrobranches.
- R1a-Y2639
- Multiple Kazakh–Afghan microclusters
Notes & context
Y2632 is central to understanding steppe ancestry in Indo-Iranian and Central Asian populations.
References & external links