ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the morphological features that can be used to distinguish human from nonhuman bone, and identifies the most common examples of misidentification. It investigates microscopic techniques for distinguishing human from nonhuman bone. Macroscopically and microscopically, human bone is most similar to the bone of other mammals, and therefore the most likely source of confusion is between human and nonhuman mammalian species. Human teeth are easily differentiated from the teeth of most other mammals owing to size and morphology. Humans exhibit small canines with apical wear, lack a diastema, and have nonsectorial premolars. The human spine is characterized by an S-shaped curve that accommodates a vertical posture. The chapter discusses biochemical analyses. Biomolecular methods are also potentially important for distinguishing human and nonhuman bone and are useful for identifying species. A thorough understanding of the benefits and limitations of each of these methods is essential for achieving the level of certainty needed in a forensic context.
