Overview
Haplogroup S-P315 represents a rare and geographically restricted branch of the broader S-M254 lineage. Its distribution suggests a long-term presence in West Papua and surrounding island regions, where deep-time isolation created opportunities for small, genetically distinct paternal lineages to persist. S-P315 likely emerged as highland and coastal communities underwent demographic fragmentation, creating multiple isolated paternal demes. Although less common than S-P202 or S-P79, the lineage helps clarify microregional differentiation in early Sahul populations.
Geographic distribution
S-P315 is found primarily in West Papua, particularly in Bird’s Head communities, and at low levels in the Bismarck Archipelago. Occasional cases occur in New Guinea Highlands populations, likely reflecting later movements or inter-valley contact. The lineage is extremely rare outside Sahul.
Ancient DNA
- Archaeogenetic data from early Papuan populations suggest the existence of multiple micro-lineages during the Late Pleistocene, consistent with the phylogenetic position of S-P315.
- West Papuan archaeological sites spanning the Holocene show signal components consistent with populations bearing S-P315 derived lineages.
- Comparisons of modern West Papuan genomes with ancient Sahul signatures support S-P315 as a regionally stable lineage.
Phylogeny & subclades
S-P315 shows limited branching, reflecting its rarity and long-term isolation. Several emerging microclades have been identified through whole Y sequencing, but sampling remains sparse. The lineage likely represents a survivor of an early demographic phase in West Papua distinct from the highland-centric expansions of S-P202.
- S-P315*
- Localized P315 microclades
Notes & context
Although rare, S-P315 fills important gaps in the phylogeny of S-M254 by revealing distinct demographic trajectories in West Papua and adjacent island regions.
References & external links