Question

Whorls are present in least frequency among:

• A. Mongoloids
• B. Micronesians
• C. Bushmen
• D. Australian aborigines

Hint:

In dermatoglyphics, remember this general trend: East Asians (Mongoloids) often have the highest frequency of whorls. Some African groups, like the Bushmen and Pygmies, have the highest frequency of arches, which means they must have a low frequency of whorls.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Concept Overview:
Dermatoglyphics, the study of fingerprint patterns, varies across human populations. The basic patterns are loops, whorls, and arches. Pattern frequencies can characterize population groups. The question identifies the group with the lowest whorl frequency.
Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
- Low whorl frequency usually corresponds to high frequency of arches, as loops are generally the most common.
- Mongoloids (East Asian populations) typically exhibit a high whorl frequency, among the highest globally.
- Micronesians and Australian aborigines also show relatively high whorl frequencies compared to European and African groups.
- Bushmen (San people of Southern Africa) are known for a high arch frequency, the rarest pattern. Therefore, they exhibit a very low whorl frequency.
Step 3: Conclusion:
Among the choices, Bushmen are distinguished by the lowest whorl frequency and the highest arch frequency.