Fluctuating asymmetry of a foraging population: the Hadza of Tanzania.

PRIMARY

OBJECTIVES

We present the first data on non-facial fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in a foraging population, the Hadza of Tanzania. We compare Hadza FA with FA of college students in New Mexico.

SUBJECTS AND

METHODS

We measured FA on 10 traits using digital calipers, and calculated a composite FA value for 63 Hadza between the ages of 18 and 72.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND

RESULTS

We found Hadza FA to be significantly higher than US FA. Female FA was higher than male FA among the Hadza, but not among the US sample. Hadza FA increases with age, unlike US FA. We discuss possible influences on FA across the lifespan.