Unveiling the Genetic History of the Maniq, a Primary Hunter-Gatherer Society

Abstract The Maniq of southern Thailand is one of the last remaining practicing hunter-gatherer communities in the world. However, our knowledge on their genetic origins and demographic history is still largely limited. We present here the genotype data covering ∼2.3 million single nucleotide polymo...

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Published in:Genome biology and evolution 2022-04, Vol.14 (4)
Main Authors: Göllner, Tobias, Larena, Maximilian, Kutanan, Wibhu, Lukas, Helmut, Fieder, Martin, Schaschl, Helmut
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Asia, Southeastern
Asians
genetic ancestry
Genetics, Population
Humans
Neanderthals - genetics
Negritos
Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
population genetics
Semang
Southeast Asia
Thailand
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Summary:Abstract The Maniq of southern Thailand is one of the last remaining practicing hunter-gatherer communities in the world. However, our knowledge on their genetic origins and demographic history is still largely limited. We present here the genotype data covering ∼2.3 million single nucleotide polymorphisms of 11 unrelated Maniq individuals. Our analyses reveal the Maniq to be closely related to the Semang populations of Malaysia (Malay Negritos), who altogether carry an Andamanese-related ancestry linked to the ancient Hòabìnhian hunter-gatherers of Mainland Southeast Asia (MSEA). Moreover, the Maniq possess ∼35% East Asian-related ancestry, likely brought about by recent admixture with surrounding agriculturist communities in the region. In addition, the Maniq exhibit one of the highest levels of genetic differentiation found among living human populations, indicative of their small population size and historical practice of endogamy. Similar to other hunter-gatherer populations of MSEA, we also find the Maniq to possess low levels of Neanderthal ancestry and undetectable levels of Denisovan ancestry. Altogether, we reveal the Maniq to be a Semang group that experienced intense genetic drift and exhibits signs of ancient Hòabìnhian ancestry.
ISSN:1759-6653
1759-6653
DOI:10.1093/gbe/evac021