Morphological Study of the Human Auricle in the Yoruba Population of Osun State: Forensic and Clinical Implications

Auricular morphology has gained growing importance in forensic science, ear biometric identification, and otoplasty planning. The external ear exhibits population-specific characteristics, and establishing normative morphometric data for Nigerian ethnic groups can contribute significantly to forensic investigation protocols and surgical outcome optimisation. This study aims to document auricular morphology and dimensions among adult Yoruba individuals in Osun State, South West Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design will be employed, with participants recruited from primary healthcare centres in Osogbo. Auricular measurements including ear height, ear width, lobule length, and lobule width will be collected bilaterally using a digital Vernier calliper. Morphological features such as ear attachment type, lobule shape, and Darwin's tubercle presence will be systematically documented. Sex differences and bilateral asymmetry will be statistically evaluated. Findings are expected to provide a forensic morphometric profile of the Yoruba ear that can support the development of facial reconstruction guidelines and improve the accuracy of facial approximation in forensic investigations conducted within South West Nigeria.

Keywords: auricular morphometry, ear biometrics, Yoruba, forensic anatomy, otoplasty