Morphometry and Morphology of the External Ear of Omumu Indigenes in Rivers State, Nigeria

Background: This study investigates the morphometric and morphological characteristics of the external ear in the Omuma population, a distinct ethnic group in Nigeria. The external ear’s unique anatomy and its individual variability, influenced by genetic, environmental, and cultural factors, have applications in forensic science, anthropological research, and clinical medicine. The research aims to provide baseline data specific to this population, filling a gap in the existing anthropometric literature. Materials and Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed in Omuma, Rivers State, Nigeria. Participants 250 volunteers aged 16–45 years, with both parents and grandparents from the Omuma ethnic group. Sampling Method: Random sampling, with sample size determined using the Taro Yamane formula. Materials and Techniques: smart camera, 2 cm graph paper, Vernier calipers, and statistical software for analysis. Morphometric data included parameters such as ear length, width, and lobule dimensions. Morphological observations documented variations in ear shape and structure. Results and Discussions: The findings reveal significant morphometric and morphological variations in the external ear among the Omuma population. Sexual Dimorphism: Male participants exhibited larger ear dimensions compared to females. Variations aligned with genetic and environmental influences unique to the Omuma group. The study corroborates earlier findings on the relevance of ear dimensions in forensic identification, reconstructive surgery, and anthropological research. The significance levels observed for ear length, width, and lobule height (p < 0.05) validate the importance of these parameters in distinguishing sex and ethnicity. Conversely, the non-significance of lobule width (p > 0.05) indicates that this measure may not be a reliable indicator of sexual dimorphism in this population. Conclusion: This research provides essential baseline data for the Omuma population, highlighting the clinical, forensic, and anthropological importance of understanding population-specific ear morphology. The results of this study revealed that free earlobes occurred more frequently than attached earlobes and earlobe attachment did not demonstrate any significant correlations with either gender or age group. Also, males had slightly higher lobule lengths and widths than females, but these differences were not statistically significant.