Please use the information below to learn more about genealogical DNA testing. Once you have tested, TxSGS can help you find other projects appropriate for your surname, geographic origins, DNA haplogroup, or you can use the results privately without joining other projects.
Use this link to order a test at Family Tree DNA through the TxSGS project.
Why Take a DNA Test?
Since 2000, the use of DNA testing for genealogical purposes has expanded enormously. Since 2009, the science has advanced to the point where autosomal DNA (DNA other than just the Y chromosome and mitochondrial DNA) can contribute to knowledge of our family history.
Aside from what you can learn today about your family history, there are three other great reasons to take a genealogical DNA test:
- to ensure your DNA results will be available to your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews as new discoveries are made in the coming years,
- to learn more about all of our Texas ancestors, and
- to contribute to the advancement of the science so new discoveries can be made.
Which DNA Test Should You Take?
Your genealogical goal will determine which DNA test you need and which person in your family should take the test.
Three Types of Tests
In general:
- Y-DNA tests trace the lineage from father to son and follow a surname in western society. Y-DNA tests can only be performed on a male subject, but a woman can recruit a male relative to take the test. The test can be performed on a male of any generation of the lineage without significantly affecting the test results.
- mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) tests trace the lineage from mother to child. mtDNA tests can be performed on a male or female subject, but only a woman passes mtDNA to the next generation. The test can be performed on a person of any generation of the lineage without significantly affecting the test results.
- autosomal DNA (atDNA) tests (Family Finder at Family Tree DNA) trace the DNA from all ancestors, not only the direct paternal and direct maternal lines. The test can be performed on male or female subjects. Whenever possible the eldest generation in a lineage should be tested to see the maximum number of matches.
How DNA is Inherited
This pedigree chart shows which ancestors each type of DNA is inherited from. Ancestors shown in blue contributed Y-DNA (if person number 1 is a male). Ancestors shown in red contributed mtDNA. Ancestors shown in yellow, red, and blue contributed autosomal DNA.
This chart shows which descendants inherit Y-DNA and mtDNA from an ancestral couple. Autosomal DNA is inherited by all descendants, whether male or female. (Squares represent males, circles represent females.)
Learn More About DNA Testing
These links provide additional information to help you determine what DNA test is appropriate for your genealogical goals:
- Foundational DNA articles.
- Family Tree DNA FAQ Topics.