What is the MT Tree (mtDNA tree)?
The TheYtree MT Tree is a maternal mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroup tree listing scientific, ancient and user samples. mtDNA is passed only through the maternal line (mother to child), tracing back to the common Mitochondrial Eve and helping you explore your maternal ancestry.
Maternal inheritance explained
mtDNA (mitochondrial DNA) is inherited only through the maternal line: a mother passes it to all her children, but only daughters pass it on. So the mtDNA of everyone traces back to a common maternal ancestor — Mitochondrial Eve (Africa, about 150,000 to 200,000 years ago). Maternal haplogroups are named by letters: L0 to L7 are mainly African; after the out-of-Africa migration, clades M and N arose, with N downstream including R, H, U, J, T, K (H, U, J common in Europe and West Asia), while M downstream is found mostly in Asia, the Americas and Oceania.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between mtDNA and Y-DNA?
Y-DNA is passed only through the paternal line (father to son) and reflects paternal ancestry; mtDNA is passed only through the maternal line (mother to child) and reflects maternal ancestry. They are independent, corresponding to the Y-tree and the MT tree.
Is the MT Tree free? How do I join?
Yes, it is free. After registering, use the Free Submit form to submit your mtDNA haplogroup or mitochondrial data, and your sample will be generated and displayed on the maternal tree.
