Suids

Suids are the members of the family Suidae, a group of omnivorous, even-toed ungulates within the order Artiodactyla. They include the true pigs and their wild relatives, commonly referred to as pigs, hogs, or boars. Most suids are adapted to a life of rooting and foraging, with a strong, mobile snout used to probe soil for food.

Extant suids are distributed across five genera: Babyrousa (babirusas of Indonesia), Hylochoerus (the giant forest hog of Africa), Phacochoerus (warthogs of Africa), Potamochoerus (bushpigs of Africa and parts of Asia), and Sus (the true pigs, including Sus scrofa, the wild boar, and the domesticated pig). The domestic pig is descended from the wild boar and is the most widely kept livestock species.

Physically, suids typically have stout bodies, short legs, and thick skin with sparse hair. The facial snout is highly flexible and acts as a sensitive tactile organ for rooting. Males often bear long, curved canines that grow into tusks used in display and combat. Body size and coloration vary considerably among species, reflecting their diverse habitats, from forests to savannas.

Ecology and behavior vary by species. They are omnivorous, feeding on roots, tubers, fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and carrion. Many species form social groups, especially females and offspring, while some males are more solitary or seasonally solitary.

Conservation status also varies: some suids are widespread and common, while others face habitat loss and hunting pressures. Domestic pigs are found worldwide and play a major role in agriculture and food systems.