What common feature do all fingerprints typically have?

All fingerprints typically have unique patterns. This characteristic is what makes fingerprints such a reliable method of identification. Each individual’s fingerprints consist of ridges and furrows that create intricate and distinct designs. These patterns are influenced by genetic factors and develop in the womb, leading to the conclusion that no two people, even identical twins, have exactly the same fingerprints.

The uniqueness of these patterns is what law enforcement and forensic experts rely on when using fingerprints for identification purposes. While color variation exists due to skin pigmentation, and sizes can range among individuals, it is the distinctive patterns that play a crucial role in fingerprint analysis. Pre-defined shapes do not apply, as fingerprints do not conform to set forms but instead display a wide variety of designs unique to each person. Thus, the emphasis on unique patterns encapsulates the essence of why fingerprints are a valuable tool in biometric identification.