A Study of the Metrical and Non-Metrical Traits of Skull

Abstract

The study of human skull has been an important aspect of anthropology and forensic science. Skull shows both metrical and non-metrical features which varies among sex, population and ethnicity. Metrical traits like cranial length, breadth, and height are measured precisely using tools like caliper. Non-metrical traits include traits like presence of inca bone, supraorbital foramen, metopic suture, and others which are not measured in numbers but are noted as present or absent. This study was conducted on 20 dried human skulls collected from anatomy department. The aim was to record common metrical and non-metrical traits and also to find if any difference between male and female skulls. Metrical measurements were taken using standard anthropometric instruments. Non-metrical traits were recorded by visual observation and palpation. Results showed that male skulls had more cranial length and breadth than female. Also, traits like torus occipitalis and supraorbital ridges were more in male skulls. Traits like metopic suture were more commonly seen in females. Understanding these traits helps not only in sex determination but also gives idea about population characteristics. This type of study is useful in medico-legal work and also in ancient skeletal analysis. There is need for more regional data as variation exists in different communities and races.

Keywords: Skull, Metrical traits, Non-metrical traits, Craniometry, Sex determination, Anthropology