Final answer:
The skeletal traits that can help identify an individual include skull shape and size, dental characteristics, bone density and strength, and the length and curvature of long bones. These traits are unique to individuals and are used by forensic anthropologists for identification purposes.
Step-by-step explanation:
To identify an individual using skeletal traits, several characteristics can be considered. Skull shape and size offer unique features such as cranial sutures and bone contours. Dental characteristics including tooth size, shape, and dental work like fillings, provide distinguishable patterns that are unique to an individual. Bone density and strength are related to age, sex, physical activity, and overall health, which can also be indicative of an individual's identity. Lastly, the length and curvature of long bones such as the femur and humerus are determined by genetics and can aid in identification, especially when combined with information about an individual's height and build.
Each skeletal trait has a functional significance. Long bones function as levers and are associated with movement, reflecting the muscle attachment and use. Similarly, bony landmarks, which can vary based on muscle strength and activity, are vital for identification. All these traits are invaluable for forensic anthropologists or others tasked with identifying human remains.