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Do Twins Have The Same Fingerprints?
Credits: Canva
SummaryDespite their genetic similarities, identical twins are not perfect replicas of one other. Despite their virtually similar look, their fingerprints serve as a reminder of how biology and environment work together to produce individuality.
It's a frequent misconception that identical twins share fingerprints. Each twin has a unique set of fingerprints that convey a different tale, despite the fact that they may appear remarkably alike and share a lot of DNA.
Are you wondering how identical twins might differ so much from one another in such a small way?
Let's look at the intriguing science that underlies it.
Twin Types: Not All Twins Are Created Equal
To understand why fingerprints differ, we must first look at the two main types of twins—identical and fraternal—and how they form.
Twins That Don’t Look Alike, or Non-Identical Twins
Fraternal twins are produced when two different sperm fertilize two different eggs. Since they share about half of their DNA, they are genetically identical to any other sibling. But, what are fraternal twins? They are also known as dizygotic twins. They come from two separate eggs, fertilized by two different sperm. They also share about 50% of their genetic material, and have unique physical traits, often different sexes at birth too.
Because of this genetic variability, fraternal twins, like non-twin siblings, can have different sexes or distinct hair and eye colors.
Twins That Are Identical
Identical twins, on the other hand, develop from a single fertilized egg that divides into two embryos. Their DNA is almost the same, but not exactly the same, thanks to this process. Also known as the monozygotic twins come from a single fertilized eggs that splits into two embryos. These twin share the same genetic material, which is what leads to their identical physical traits and the same sex at birth. However, there are slight differences that can emerge due to environmental factors during pregnancy, including the space in the womb.
According to a 2021 study referenced by Smithsonian Magazine, only 38 pairs of identical twins and two sets of triplets had completely identical genes. Because of their tight genetic ties, they have remarkable physical similarities, such as similar skin tones, eye colors, and hair colors. However, minor distinctions like height, weight, and fingerprints distinguish them.
Fingerprints: Not Just Genetic Information
Although fingerprint patterns are influenced by heredity, environmental variables within the womb provide a twist.
Experts in forensic science say there is almost little likelihood that identical twins' fingerprints will match. Although they may have similar overall characteristics, such ridges and loops, the specifics are different.
The following factors affect fingerprints:
- Access to nutrition during pregnancy
- The length of the umbilical cord influences blood flow.
- Growth rates of fingers
- Placement inside the womb
- Both DNA and these environmental influences shape fingerprints, which are fixed for life by the 13th to 19th week of foetal development.
Solving the Fingerprint Mysteries
According to some research, twins' fingerprints could seem similar at first glance, but a deeper look reveals variations in the pattern branches and ridge spacing.
According to the National Forensic Science Technology Centre, no two individuals—not even identical twins—have ever been found to have the same fingerprints.
It adds even more individuality because even your own fingers have different prints!
End of Article