Overview
Haplogroup T-Y8614 is a major downstream branch of T-L131 and represents one of the clearest signatures of Iranian Plateau and South Caucasus paternal structure. The lineage displays a well-supported association with agro-pastoral and transhumant populations that spread across Iran, Armenia, Azerbaijan and eastern Anatolia. Its internal structure suggests a series of region-specific founder events linked to late Neolithic and Bronze Age cultural expansions. T-Y8614 also appears in South Asia, consistent with gene flow along networks connecting the Iranian Plateau with the Indus cultural sphere.
Geographic distribution
T-Y8614 reaches its highest frequencies in Iran, particularly in the western and central provinces. The South Caucasus shows significant representation in Armenia and Georgia. It is also present in Azerbaijan and eastern Turkey. South Asian occurrences extend across Pakistan, Punjab and Gujarat. Coastal Arabia and the Levant show low-level but notable presence, reflecting broader Near Eastern mobility.
Ancient DNA
- Bronze Age Iranian genomes show paternal signatures compatible with early T-Y8614 ancestors.
- Caucasus Chalcolithic individuals display genetic affinities matching derived T-L131 clusters including Y8614.
- Indus periphery samples contain components consistent with gene flow from ancient Iranian Plateau populations that overlap with T-Y8614 distribution.
Phylogeny & subclades
T-Y8614 includes several downstream branches, some with strong geographic specificity in Iran and the Caucasus. These microclades reflect repeated demographic pulses and localized expansions during the Bronze Age. The lineage is also structured by connections to early Indo-Iranian and trans-Caucasus cultural horizons.
- T-Y8614*
- Iranian Y8614 clusters
- Caucasus Y8614 microclades
Notes & context
T-Y8614 is an important reference point for reconstructing Bronze Age Iranian and Caucasus population dynamics and their links to South Asia.
References & external links