Twins fingerprints

Typically, when you hear about monozygotic twins you think identical, however, we all know that certain characteristics can be different between them. Fingerprints are one of those characteristics, and this is possible because the designs they make are not controlled 100% by DNA. Although the core shape of the fingerprint is based on DNA make up (like loop, whirl, or arch) the environment present during development controls the finer characteristics of the print. Environmental controls like nutrition, blood pressure, the growth rate of the fingers, and most importantly is the position in the womb. Where the fetus is located is the only variable that differs between monozygotic twins, and this is the primary reason for distinguishable prints. Although the prints will be very similar to the naked eye they can easily be separated with further analysis. The way the position in the womb effects the print is similar to molding clay. If you can imagine the hands of the developing fetus being like the clay and where the fetus touches the womb is like a mold; then you can picture how the twins prints will differ slightly because they are developing in different locations in the womb.