Who was the first to identify the presence and locations of the volar pads on hands and feet?

The identification of the presence and locations of the volar pads on hands and feet is attributed to Dr. Arthur Kollmann. His work involved the anatomical study of the skin's structure, particularly with regard to these pads that are significant in the formation of fingerprints. Kollmann's research emphasized the role that these pads play in the development of friction ridge skin, which is crucial for understanding fingerprint patterns and their individual characteristics.

The volar pads are critical in the formation of finger and toe prints, as they contribute to the unique patterns that can be used for personal identification. By studying these pads, Kollmann helped lay the foundation for later advancements in fingerprint analysis and identification techniques. This contribution is vital in forensic science, particularly in the field of latent print examination, as it offers insights into fingerprint development and variation among individuals.