Variability in facial size and shape among North and East African human populations

A 3D configuration of landmarks was selected on the craniofacial district to analyse the morphological variability within and among North and East African human populations. Multivariate analysis of data obtained from generalised Procrustes superimposition showed that the observed variability is relatively homogeneneous and not polarised. A general vertical flattening/extension of the whole face with consequent widening/narrowing of the facial structure and forward/backward maxillary rotation corresponds to the main axis of variance, and this is probably related to the sub-Saharan morphological contribution. There are no significant size differences between populations, The overall allometric component involves mainly a vertical growth of the face. There are morphological differences between North and East African specimens related to nasal flattening and maxillary development in the hitter group.