Sexual Dimorphism and Regional Variation in Fingerprint Pattern Indices among Hausa Populations of Kano and Zaria, Nigeria

Dermatoglyphics, the study of dermal ridge patterns, remains a valuable tool for understanding genetic variation and population-specific characteristics. This study investigates the frequency distribution and sexual dimorphism of fingerprint pattern indices among Hausa populations in Kano and Zaria, Nigeria. Fingerprints from 600 participants (300 males and 300 females) were collected using systematic random sampling and analyzed for Dankmeijer’s Index (DI), Furuhata’s Index (FI), and the Pattern Intensity Index (PII). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 22, with chi-square tests applied to assess associations (p<0.05 significant). Findings revealed notable sexual dimorphism and regional variation. Among males, participants from Zaria demonstrated significantly higher mean FI (367 vs. 276, p<0.05) and PII (12.9 vs. 12.2, p=0.03) than those from Kano, whereas Kano males exhibited higher DI (143 vs. 129, p=0.04). In females, Zaria participants showed significantly higher FI (418 vs. 250, p<0.01) and PII (13.0 vs. 11.4, p<0.01), while Kano females had higher DI (254 vs. 122, p=0.02). Overall, females from Zaria displayed statistically higher mean DI values compared to their Kano counterparts (p<0.05). Across all groups, loop and whorl patterns predominated, with PII values ranging from 11 to 15, consistent with earlier reports on Nigerian populations. These findings highlight the interplay of genetic and environmental influences on fingerprint patterns and underscore the relevance of dermatoglyphic indices in understanding ethnic differentiation. The study contributes new data on the Hausa ethnic group and provides a basis for further research into genetic, evolutionary, and forensic implications of these biometric traits.

Key Words: Sexual Dimorphism, Fingerprints, Pattern Indices, Hausa, Kano, Zaria