The shape of the human nose is determined by the climate in which it lives

When you are asked to describe the physical characteristics of a “Caucasian” or Caucasoid race, you may mention that they generally have white skin, tall bodies, blue or green eyes, and long noses. Meanwhile, Asians tend to have olive or dark skin, medium or short bodies, and snub noses. Have you ever wondered why the shape of the human nose in different parts of the world varies? Well, researchers have found the answer. Check out the findings of the experts below.

Differences in the shape of the nose in humans around the world

Since the late 1800s, a British researcher and anatomist named Arthur Thomson has studied the variations in the shape of the human nose in various parts of the world. According to his research, it is known that people who live in cold and dry climates tend to have sharp and slender noses. For example in countries in Europe and North America.

Meanwhile, human populations who live on continents with warmer and humid climates, such as Asia and Africa, are known to have broad and flat noses. Unfortunately, Arthur Thomson's theory was not fully developed because at that time the data was still limited, until finally other research has recently confirmed the answer.

What is the relationship between climate and the shape of the human nose?

Recently, a study conducted by a team of experts from Pennsylvania State University in the United States managed to reveal why the shape of the human nose is different in different parts of the world. These findings seem to support the theory pioneered by researcher Arthur Thomson.

Although the shape of a person's nose is genetically determined, there are also other factors that determine it, namely the ability of human adaptation to climate differences. You may be wondering, what does the difference in climate have to do with the shape of the human nose? The answer lies in the function of the nose itself.

The nose functions as a filter for air and various particles that are inhaled enter the lungs. That is, the nose will help prevent dirt or dust from entering the respiratory system. In addition, the nose will also adjust the temperature and humidity of the incoming air so that it is not too cold, hot, or dry for the lungs.

Research published in the journal Public Library of Science (PLOS): Genetics explains that "Caucasians" have a sharp nose so they can adapt to very cold and dry air. With a sharp and slender nose, even the inhaled air will not directly enter the respiratory system. The air will remain in the nose longer so that the temperature and humidity can be regulated and warmed first before going to the lungs.

Meanwhile, the nose of Asian or African people tends to be shorter because the air does not need to be held long to get warm. The reason is, the air in these countries is warm and humid enough for the lungs. Because of this necessity of survival and adaptation, the human nose in each country takes on a different shape.