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No sex difference in digit ratios (2D:4D) in the traditional Yali of Papua and its meaning for the previous hypotheses on the inter‐populational variability in 2D:4D
Author(s) -
Marczak Michalina,
Misiak Michał,
Sorokowska Agnieszka,
Sorokowski Piotr
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
american journal of human biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.559
H-Index - 81
eISSN - 1520-6300
pISSN - 1042-0533
DOI - 10.1002/ajhb.23078
Subject(s) - digit ratio , numerical digit , sexual dimorphism , trait , demography , biology , population , evolutionary biology , zoology , mathematics , genetics , testosterone (patch) , arithmetic , computer science , sociology , programming language
Objectives The ratio between the 2nd and 4th digit (2D:4D) is considered to be a sexually dimorphic trait in humans, with males having on average lower 2D:4D values than females. However, significant inter‐ and intra‐sexual differences in digit ratios across populations have been reported. In order to further explore factors influencing the variability of 2D:4D, we performed a study among the Yali, a traditional population from Papua. Methods We measured digit ratios of 79 adults (47 males) from the traditional Yali society, a polygamous group who inhabit a harsh high‐mountain environment almost directly on the equator. Results Statistical analysis of the data show no significant inter‐sexual difference in digit ratios in our sample. Conclusions We discuss the results in light of various factors that putatively shape the differences in digit ratios. We conclude that the results of our study contribute to the existing evidence suggesting that digit ratio might not be universally sexually dimorphic in humans.