Sex differences in fingerprint ridge density in the Mataco-Mataguayo population

Area of Science:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Dermatoglyphics
• Human Biology

Background:

• Ridge density (RD) is a biometric trait influenced by genetics and environment.
• Previous studies indicate variations in RD across different populations, sexes, and age groups.
• Understanding RD patterns is crucial for forensic and anthropological research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate sexual dimorphism in ridge density (RD) within the Amerindian Mataco-Mataguayo population.
• To determine the age of onset for observed sexual dimorphism in RD.
• To analyze topological variations in RD across different finger regions and their correlation with age and sex.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 2090 fingerprints from 99 males and 110 females aged 6-25 years.
• Quantification of ridge density (RD) in distal radial, distal ulnar, and proximal finger regions.
• Statistical comparison of RD values based on sex, age groups, and anatomical areas.

Main Results:

• Ridge density (RD) decreased with increasing age across all participants.
• Higher RD was consistently observed in distal (radial and ulnar) areas compared to proximal areas.
• Females exhibited higher RD than males after the age of 12, with no significant difference in younger individuals.
• The Mataco-Mataguayo population showed RD values in the radial area comparable to Spanish samples but higher than other studied populations.

Conclusions:

• Sexual dimorphism in ridge density (RD) becomes apparent in the Mataco-Mataguayo population after age 12.
• Age and topological location significantly influence RD patterns in this Amerindian group.
• Developmental variations likely account for the observed differences in RD among individuals and populations, highlighting the need for population-specific dermatoglyphic data.