The Phillips DNA Project News

How many generations does a Y-chromosome DNA test trace?

Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) tests trace both recent and distant generations. The number of generations traced by a Y-chromosome DNA test depends on the type of test taken, short tandem repeat (STR) or single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). STR such as the Y-37, Y-67 and Y-111 tests are able to trace a male lineage within genealogical times and into historic times. On the other hand, Y-DNA SNP tests like the Big Y tests trace both ancient anthropological migrations and more recent prehistoric movements. A Y-DNA SNP test also identifies the haplogroup, which represents your deep ancestral origins (tens of thousands of years ago).

Phillips DNA Blog