Fingerprint Patterns: Genetic or Random?

Authors

  • Kathryn Reynolds Texas A&M University
  • Adrienne Brundage Sponsor

Abstract

Abstract: Fingerprints are used for identification in both legal and civil matters. Their use ranges from forensic evidence to identification for important documentation such as a driver’s license. The patterns of friction ridge skin are varied throughout the population with a majority having loops and very few having arches. The aim of this study was to determine the predictability of pattern types and determine if they have genetic significance. The results from this experiment showed that overall pattern types are genetically inherited while distinctive minutiae are due to random environmental stimuli.

Keywords: identification, minutiae, genetic, friction ridge skin

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Published

2023-10-18