Estimation of stature from head length of adults belonging to soligas- a genetically isolated tribe from southern india

Stature is an important primary character that defines an individual’s identity and has paramount importance when only a part of body or a grossly mutilated body is available to the expert for forensic work up. Presently there exist no studies on populations which are ancient, unique, which are geographically, genetically and culturally isolated; Soliga tribal population of BR Hills represents one such population. Stature and head length were measured among 98 soliga volunteers above 25 years of age. Average stature observed was 164.39 cm in males and 152.67 cm in females. Average Head length was 17.88 cm in males and 16.80 cm in females. Positive correlation exists between stature and head length amongst the soliga population. A set of simple regression equations (combined and separate for males and females) of forensic significance were established. To assess the accuracy, the means of the minimum, maximum and average head length were applied to the respective equations and when the means of the estimated values and original values were compared, statistically insignificant differences (p> 0.05) were yielded implying that the equations can be applied to the Soliga tribal population within acceptable margins of error.