How Can DNA Help Us Break Down Walls or Find Our Ancestors?

There are three main types of DNA tests: Autosomal, Y-DNA, and mtDNA.

• Autosomal DNA is the most commonly used DNA test. It can be taken by both males (XY) and females (XX) and helps uncover recent relationships across all family lines.

• mtDNA, or mitochondrial DNA, is inherited from your mother and is passed down only through females. Everyone has mtDNA, but only women transmit it to their children.

• Y-DNA tests focus on the direct paternal line, tracing the Y chromosome passed from father to son. This test can only be taken by males.

When you undergo mtDNA or Y-DNA testing, you are assigned to a haplogroup, which indicates a genetic group of people sharing a common ancestor on either the paternal or maternal line.

In surname groups, direct male lines are particularly valuable, as they provide the best opportunity to trace the Huntar/Hunter lineage. In contrast, mtDNA is less useful for surname studies since surnames change with each generation.

For more information on the different tests, please refer to the FAQ menu options:

• Autosomal DNA – Help | FamilyTreeDNA
• Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) – Help | FamilyTreeDNA
• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) – Help | FamilyTreeDNA
• What are haplogroups? – Help | FamilyTreeDNA

If you prefer visual aids, Ancestry.com offers helpful graphics explaining the different tests: Y-DNA, mtDNA, and Autosomal DNA Tests (Ancestry.com).