Identical twins fingerprints same?

[bluedolphin]

Is it possible for identical twins to have the same fingerprints?

[drochit]

You could never prove that it is impossible for any two people to have identical fingerprints but it is highly unlikely. Generally it is true to say that identical twins will have different fingerprints. This is because fingerprints are not genetic but are dictated by other factors.

[hal]

Drochit - what other factors are you talking about. This semms unlikely to me.

[Quizmonster]

All sorts of factors other than simple genetics are involved whilst they are in the womb - foetal position, pressures upon the embryos, blood-supply and so on. No two people have the same fingerprints as a result. The odds against such an occurrence are vastly greater then 'highly unlikely'...more like impossible. It's a bit like saying: "Just because everybody in past generations died, that doesn't mean that I'm going to." In the same way, no two sets of fingerprints have ever been identical up to now, so it's pretty well guaranteed that they never will be.

[drochit]

Thanks QM. I avoided the use of the word 'impossible' because I expected someone to jump on me as I can't find absolute proof of that. I agree with you that it appears more than likely to be impossible but I don't think any of us will live long enough to find out.
Hal In confirmation of QM's answer above the ultimate shape of fingerprints is influenced by environmental factors during pregnancy. These include, but are not limited to, nutrition, blood pressure, position in the womb and growth rate of the fingers. Identical twins are two separate beings and although their fingerprints will have similar patterns of whorls and ridges there will also be differences making each set of prints unique.

[Lennon]

I agree that their fingerprints would be different, but their DNA would be the same.

[hal]

Drochit - you said fingerprints are not genetic. I accept that environmental factors within the uterus during development will influence the final fingerprint but ther is still a genetic influence. Identical twins fingerprints will be similar but not the same. That is they will vary less than in comparison with fraternal twins, non- twin siblings and non-related people.