Forensics Fingerprint Characteristics

A bifurcation, also known as a fork, is a ridge characteristic where one ridge divides into two.

The three main types of fingerprint patterns are arches, loops, and whorls.

The most common type of fingerprint pattern is the loop, which accounts for about 65% of fingerprints.

A whorl fingerprint pattern consists of circular or spiral ridges that form a complete circuit.

An arch fingerprint pattern features ridges that rise in the center, creating a wave-like appearance.

A central pocket loop is a type of whorl that has one or more ridges that make a complete circuit and a loop that opens towards the thumb.

A double loop whorl is a fingerprint pattern that consists of two separate loops.

An accidental whorl is a fingerprint pattern that does not fit into any of the standard categories of whorls.

A spur is a ridge characteristic that resembles a small ridge that extends from a larger ridge.

An island or short ridge is a ridge characteristic that appears as a small ridge segment that does not connect to other ridges.