I12293: Ksirov, Tajikstan

Kushan of Tajikstan
M406*

The G-M3302 YDNA sample, found in Kirov, Tajikistan, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient migrations. The publishers of The Formation of Human Populations in South and Central Asia concluded in their analysis that the sample was autosomally anywhere between 20 to 37 percent N. Anatolian.  While the individual himself resided within the region historically associated with the Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex (BMAC), his genetic profile indicates a significant ancestral connection to Middle Bronze Age Armenians. This suggests that one of his immediate ancestors migrated from Armenia to the BMAC region. Furthermore, the individual's genome shows an additional genetic shift towards the local BMAC population, meaning that this migration likely occurred within the timeframe of a close ancestor rather than in the distant past.

The sample, dated to 100 BCE–300 CE, provides a temporal framework for understanding this migration in the context of the Parthian Empire, which at times controlled both Armenia and the regions near BMAC during this period.

Likely Context for Migration

• Migration Timing: Given the admixture patterns and regional history, the migration likely occurred during the lifetime of the individual’s parent, grandparent, or possibly great-grandparent.

• Parthian Empire Influence: During the Parthian period, Armenia and the regions of Central Asia, including what is now Tajikistan, were interconnected through trade, military campaigns, and administrative networks. The Parthians were known to facilitate the movement of people within their empire for strategic and economic purposes, potentially bringing an Armenian ancestor into the BMAC region.

Probable Date Range

• 100 BCE–1 BCE: This period aligns with the early consolidation of Parthian influence in Armenia and Central Asia, potentially marking the initial migration of an Armenian ancestor.

• 1 CE–100 CE: The Arsacid dynasty’s consolidation in Armenia under Parthian control and continued interactions between Armenia and Central Asia make this an equally plausible time for such a migration.

• 100 CE–300 CE: Later Parthian campaigns and the increasing interconnectedness of their empire through trade routes, such as the Silk Road, might have facilitated this movement during this period.

Most Likely Period

The migration likely occurred during the 1st century BCE to the 1st century CE, coinciding with heightened Parthian consolidation and administrative integration. This timeline would fit well with the observed admixture, suggesting the Armenian ancestor arrived in the BMAC region during a time of significant Parthian influence, followed by rapid genetic assimilation into the local population.

This scenario highlights the dynamic nature of the Parthian Empire, where cultural and genetic exchanges spanned vast territories, reflecting the diverse and interconnected populations under its control.

Global25: (not from Davidski)

Tajikistan_Ksirov_H_Kushan:I12260__BC_101__Cov_10.84%,0.092197,0.092413,-0.043746,-0.00969,-0.040315,0.013108,-0.009165,-0.009923,-0.026793,-0.010752,0.018512,0.013788,-0.012487,-0.007707,0.008958,0.02201,0.022948,-0.005448,0.018729,-0.009254,-0.004118,0.003215,0.004683,-0.017111,0.011975

Supplementary materials can be downloaded here.

"Tajikistan_Ksirov_Kushan sample dna breakdown using qpAdm a professional dna tool Genetically close to modern Yaghobis from Tajikistan"

42.2% proto indo european
25.4% Iran Neolithic
20.7% Anatolian Neolithic Farmer
7.8% proto turkic proxy
2.5% Caucasus hunter gatherer
1.4% onge negrito indian aboriginal