What is a haplogroup?
A group of similar haplotypes that share a common ancestor with a SNP mutation. Because a haplogroup consists of similar haplotypes, this is what makes it possible to predict a haplogroup. A SNP test confirms a haplogroup. Haplogroups are assigned letters of the alphabet, and refinements consist of additional number and letter combinations, Example: R1b1. Y-chromosome and mitochondrial DNA haplogroups have different haplogroup designations. Haplogroups pertain to your deep ancestral origins dating back thousands of years. For a description of the migration patterns and ethnic origins of each group, take a look at Charles Kerchner’s webpage: http://www.kerchner.com/haplogroups-ydna.htm Family Tree DNA’s Understanding Haplogroups.
From the beginning of human existence, humans have moved and migrated to adapt to appropriate climates, diets, and living conditions. Over thousands of years, these ancient populations became isolated and their DNA changed until they became genetically distinct from other isolated groups throughout the world. These deep ancestral groups are referred to as haplogroups. Haplogroups are assigned letters of the alphabet, and refinements consist of additional number and letter combinations, Example: R1b1. Y-chromosome and mitochondrial DNA haplogroups have different haplogroup designations. Visit www.genetree.com today to have your DNA tested, receive your haplogroup prediction and discover interesting facts about your own ancient ancestor’s movements over time.
A haplogroup is defined as all the male descendants of the single person who first showed a particular mutation, called a SNP. These special mutations are extremely rare, and identify a group of people over a period of tens of thousands of years. Your haplogroup assignment indicates which part of the phylogenetic tree of male Homo Sapiens you descend from.
