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Digital dermatoglyphics of 107 Bengalis
American Journal of Physical Anthropology
|February 1, 1979
Summary
Fingerprint analysis of Bengalis in Bangladesh reveals ulnar loops as the most common pattern. Female Bangladeshis showed distinct dermatoglyphic differences compared to Brahmins, with more whorls and arches.
Area of Science:
- Forensic science
- Anthropology
- Genetics
Background:
- Dermatoglyphics, the study of fingerprint patterns, offers insights into human population genetics.
- Previous dermatoglyphic studies have focused on various ethnic groups, but data on Bengalis in Bangladesh is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the frequency of different fingerprint pattern types in a Bengali population from Bangladesh.
- To compare digital dermatoglyphic characteristics between male and female Bangladeshis and with other populations.
Main Methods:
- Fingerprint patterns (ulnar loop, whorl, arch, radial loop) were analyzed in 59 males and 48 females.
- Pattern intensity indices and ridge counts were calculated for each digit and in total.
- Data was compared with previously published findings on Brahmins of Bengal.
Main Results:
- Ulnar loops were the most prevalent pattern (53%), followed by whorls (40%). Arches (5%) and radial loops (2%) were least common.
- Radial loops were most frequent on index fingers.
- Female Bangladeshis exhibited a higher frequency of whorls and arches, fewer loops, and a greater mean total ridge count compared to female Brahmins.
Conclusions:
- The study provides valuable dermatoglyphic data for the Bengali population in Bangladesh.
- Significant differences in fingerprint patterns were observed between male and female Bangladeshis, and between Bangladeshi females and Brahmins, suggesting potential genetic influences.