Even though identical twins may look identical, they do not share identical fingerprints. (Image credit: Shutterstock)Your fingerprints are unique from all others on Earth. Your genetic makeup is partly responsible for the whorls, ridges and patterns on your fingertips. Your fingerprints would still be unique if your twin was identical to you.Monozygotic twins are also called identical twins. They are born from one embryo, which splits in two during development. Two individuals with almost identical genetic information and almost identical appearances result. Although identical twins are basically clones of each other, genetic mutations in their wombs mean that they don't share 100% of their DNA. Live Science previously reported.Monozygotic twins have almost identical DNA but don't share the same fingerprints.Related: Why are fingerprints important?Simona Francese (a forensic scientist at Sheffield Hallam University and an expert on fingerprints) said that identical twins have more similarities than random people, but their fingerprints can be used to identify them.There are no two fingerprints on the planet.Francese stated that "the probability of two people sharing the same fingerprints" is 1 in 64 billion. "To date, there have never been two fingerprints that are identical."Each finger has a different fingerprint. Francese stated that each digit is unique and produces a different fingerprint.If identical twins have almost the exact same DNA, why can't their fingerprints be distinguished from each other?Francese stated that DNA is not the only factor that affects a person's fingerprints. However, it plays a significant role in determining ridge pattern characteristics. Different environmental factors play a part in fingerprint development.Fingerprints form between 13 and 19 week of fetal development. Francese stated that fingerprints can be affected by the position of the fetus in the womb, access nutrients, and even the length the umbilical cord.Other factors may also affect fingerprints after twins are born. Francese stated that skin conditions, scars, burns, and medications can alter the ridge details permanently or temporarily.Even though identical twins may be able fool their family and friends about who they are, there's always a way to tell them apart.Original publication on Live Science
