Ancient DNA Reveals a Two-Clanned Matrilineal Community in Neolithic China
Release date:
2025-04-21
Description:
In this study, we obtained genome-wide data using optimized ancient DNA methods to reconstruct the precise genetic relationships of ancient individuals buried at the Fujia site in Eastern China, dating to approximately 4,696-4,438 years ago. Our result presents tangible genomic evidence of a matrilineal society at the Fujia site. We also implement an interdisciplinary approach involving stable isotopes, physical anthropology, paleoenvironments and Bayesian model on AMS dating to provide insights into their subsistence practices, local environment, level of social complexity, and duration of the cemetery use. The Fujia case not only confirms the existence of Neolithic matrilineal society, for which long-term evidence has been lacking, but also aligns with a few anthropological characteristics of modern matrilineal societies, expanding our understanding of ancient matrilineal clan structures.
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