About us
This project was started to:
- Help researchers from common or related families work together to find their shared heritage.
- Identify how the particpant's families are connected, both genetically and through paper trails.
- Identify and confirm lineages of ancestral families.
Y-DNA test differences:
STRs and SnPs:
FamilyTreeDNA offers several STR tests (Y-37, Y-67, Y-111). Relationship between STR matches is determined by genetic differences (GD) on the Y chromosome. When a GD becomes too great (around 10% or more of the number of markers tested), it is unlikely that the two people share a common ancestor within a genealogical timeframe (i.e. since about 1,200 C.E.). STR test results will provide you with a predicted haplogroup.
SnP (snip) tests look at mutations on the Y chromosome. These results reach beyond a genealogical timeframe and can leapfrog over genealogical brick walls. SnP testing will confirm a haplogroup.
Big-Y: FamilyTreeDNA’s main SnP test offering is the Big-Y. It is the most informative and conclusive Y-DNA test. An upgrade (from Y37 or Y67) to Big-Y includes Y-111 results for free.
Where to start? A basic Y-STR test will connect you with your DNA family. For more information, consider upgrades until you get to Big-Y. Watch for sales that occur year-round, often at holidays.
- The genealogist's test of choice for Y-DNA is the Big-Y.