Genetic origins of the Kiritimati population from central-eastern Micronesia

Abstract

Abstract The migration of Austronesian-speaking populations through Oceania has intrigued researchers for decades. The Kiribati islands, situated along the boundaries of Micronesia and Polynesia, provide a crucial link in this migration. We analyzed the genome-wide data of the Kiritimati population of Kiribati to uncover their genetic origins and connections with other Oceanian groups. Our study reveals that the Kiritimati population primarily exhibits Remote Oceanian-related ancestry associated with ancient Lapita and present-day Polynesian populations. In addition, our identity-by-descent analysis identifies populations from Philippines as their closest relatives in Island Southeast Asia. The genetic links between Kiritimati, ancient Lapita, and modern Polynesians underscore the shared ancestry and continuous gene flow across these regions. This genetic continuity and ongoing links are supported by linguistic and cultural evidence, illustrating a complex history of migration and admixture in Oceania.