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Teotihuacan was under itīs heydays the largest civilisation in ancient Mesoamerica. Teotihuacan city is famous for its impressive architecture, with monuments like the sun pyramid and the moon pyramid.
But the genetic background of itīs people have been relatively unknown.
Here follows a study from 2023 which can bring some light into the matter. It concludes among other things that the Teotihuacanos mitochondrial DNA could be classified into haplogroups occurring in present and ancient Mesoamerica. In addition, Teotihuacan individuals had a diet dependent on C4 plants such as maize.
quote:Background
The Teotihuacan civilisation was the largest one in ancient Mesoamerica. The Teotihuacan city was born in the north-eastern Basin of Mexico around the second century BC, reached its peak in the fourth century AD, and had cultural influence throughout Mesoamerica. At its peak, the size of the city reached more than 20 km2, and the total population is estimated to have increased from 100,000 to 200,000. However, knowledge of the genetic background of the Teotihuacan people is still limited.
Aim
We aimed to determine the mitogenome sequences of the Teotihuacan human remains and compare the ancient and present Mesoamericans. In addition, we aimed to identify the food habits of ancient Teotihuacans.
Subjects and methods
We determined the mitogenome sequences of human remains dated to 250636 cal AD using target enrichment-coupled next generation sequencing. We also performed stable isotope analysis.
Results We successfully obtained nearly full-length sequences newly unearthed from a civilian dwelling in the Teotihuacan site. Teotihuacan mitochondrial DNA was classified into the haplogroups in present and ancient Mesoamericans. In addition, Teotihuacan individuals had a diet dependent on C4 plants such as maize.
Conclusion
Genetic diversity varied among the Teotihuacans.
quote:All the sequences belonged to haplogroup A2, B2, or D1, which are representative for the present-day native Americans.
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