Overview
R1a-Z2122 is one of the largest branches under R1a-Z2124 and forms a major paternal lineage of Andronovo, Saka and later Turkic and Iranian-speaking populations. It emerged in the steppe regions of Kazakhstan and southern Siberia during the late Bronze Age. Z2122 lineages are heavily represented in archaeological cultures that practiced horse-based mobility, early cavalry warfare and metallurgy. During the Iron Age, Z2122 spread across the Eurasian steppe with Saka and early Turkic tribes. Some of its branches appear among Sarmatian confederations as well. Its geographic mobility was enhanced by nomadic lifestyle patterns and inter-cultural alliances. Z2122 also contributed to the genetic formation of early Indo-Iranian communities through sustained interaction with BMAC populations. Today, Z2122 is one of the most important lineages in Central Asia and maintains strong continuity with steppe populations.