Abstract: Objective: To explore the morphology of adult hands in the Bouyei nationality, and provide morphological interpretations affecting orthopedics, use of machinery and equipment, the manufacture of tools, and the protection of the hands. Methods: According to international standards of measurement, 44 morphological indices of the hand of 312 adults (153 males, 159 females) of the Bouyei nationality aged 20 to 55 years from Xiasi town, Dushan County, Guizhou Province were measured. Results: In every measurement, males were larger than females (P < 0. 01). Right-side measurements were 75% larger in males and and 81. 82% in females. Thickness, circumference, length and breadth of shape showed significant differences ( P < 0 . 0 5 or P <0. 01). The average of the metacarpal index was 96. 56 in males and 93. 84 in females, and the average in the hand index was 46. 12 in males and 45. 66 in females. Conclusion: This work shows evidence for asymmetry in the morphological data and obvious differences in hand shape by sex. Generally, hands were described as short and wide, and finger type as short and thick.

Key words: Anthropology; Anthropometry; Hand type; Finger type; Bouyei nationality