Digital dermatoglyphics of the Faroe Islanders

Finger dermatoglyphics of 446 male and 463 female Faroe Islanders are described. According to birthplace information for their grandparents the individuals sampled are considered to be representative of all regions of the Faroes. Pattern frequencies are given for individual digits and the tables contain mean radial, ulnar, and unilateral maximal ridge counts. Overall frequencies of patterns and mean total ridge counts in both sexes are compared with other populations in northwestern Europe, several of which have had close historical connections with the Faroes. The Faroese have exceptionally high frequencies of arch and ulnar loop patterns, making their mean pattern intensity index values among the lowest in Europe. Low mean total ridge counts are also characteristic of this population. Icelanders show closer dermatoglyphic resemblance to the Faroese than any other European populations. Low mean total ridge counts among Shetland and Orkney Islanders are noteworthy, and it is possible that the resemblance between these North Atlantic island populations is due to common ancestry arising from Viking settlement during the 8th and 9th centuries. The operation of random genetic drift on the gene pool of the Faroe Islanders is another factor to be considered when assessing their biological affinities.