Multivariate allometry as a model of morphometric harmony of four skinfolds in the newborn

The concept of harmony in a set of anthropometric dimensions is identified with the notion of minimum variance associated with a function of several variables in those dimensions. When the chosen function is linear in the natural logarithms of the variables, the resulting model is the well-known multivariate allometry and the notion of minimum variance corresponds to the eigenvector associated with the smallest eigenvalue of the covariance matrix. This multivariate allometry model was fitted to four skinfolds in a sample of 250 newborns. The existence of a harmonic relationship among the skinfolds which is independent of weight, total body fat, body mass index, and several other maternal variables is indicated. There is, however, some evidence suggesting a possible correlation with the nutritional condition of the mother. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.