The absence of a distinct, dangling lower portion of the outer ear, typically characterized by a smooth curve or lobe, represents a variation in human anatomy. This physical characteristic, where the lower part of the ear appears directly attached to the side of the head, is a naturally occurring trait observed across diverse populations.
The presence or absence of this feature is primarily determined by genetic factors, specifically the inheritance of alleles governing earlobe morphology. While some studies have explored potential associations between earlobe attachment and other heritable traits, the characteristic is generally considered a harmless variation with no known impact on hearing ability or overall health. Understanding the genetic basis of such variations contributes to broader knowledge of human genetic diversity.