Overview
R-V88 is a distinctive early branch of R1b with a distribution centered in central Africa, particularly among Chadic-speaking populations. Genetic and archaeological evidence indicates that R-V88 likely originated in the Near East or the Levant before an early Holocene movement into central Africa. This lineage is notable for illustrating ancient trans-Saharan connections and demographic transitions linked to climatic changes in the early Holocene Sahara.
Geographic distribution
High frequencies among Chadic-speaking groups in northern Cameroon and Chad, and lower occurrences in the Levant and North Africa.
Ancient DNA
- Neolithic Levantine individuals carrying upstream lineages
- Holocene Saharan context suggests trans-Saharan migrations during the Green Sahara period
Phylogeny & subclades
R-V88 stands apart from the more European focused R-M269 branch and forms its own African centered diversification.
Notes & context
R-V88 is a primary example of early Holocene demographic shifts tied to Sahara greening and language dispersals.
References & external links