Melanesid
Atypical brachycephalic Melanesid variety native to Melanesia and New Guinea. In its most pronounced form in the Kerewo of Goaribari Island in the Papua Gulf - and the related Kiwai. Another centre lies in the Bismarck Archipelago.
Occasionally found in East New Guinea, highlanders (Bena Bena), and along the Bougainville Strait. This variety represents an unusual cranial form among Melanesid populations, where longer skull shapes are more typical.
The Brachio Melanesid type presents an atypical cranial form for Melanesian populations with its mildly brachycephalic (broad) skull shape and orthocranic height. The build is mesomorphic to endomorphic with brachyskelic proportions (relatively short legs), but notably features long arms. Dark reddish-brown skin and usually tight-curly hair are typical Melanesid features, though red or blonde hair appears in rare cases. The mildly platyrrhine, high-rooted nose and deep-set eyes combine with relatively thick but non-bulging lips. A distinctive feature is the somewhat stronger chin compared to other Melanesid varieties, along with moderate body hair growth.
The brachycephalic element was reported early by Haddon (1916). Both Eickstedt (1934) and Battaglia (1967), among others, reported brachycephalic Melanesids from different places.
