Pigs
Pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus)
Pigs (Latin: Sus scrofa domesticus), also known as swine or hogs, are a type of domesticated mammal belonging to the Suidae family. They are a subspecies of the wild boar, which was first domesticated in the Neolithic period in the Fertile Crescent.
Pronunciation
Pigs: /pɪɡz/
Etymology
The term "pig" originates from the Old English word "picg", which is of unknown origin. The term "swine" is from the Old English "swin", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic "*swinaz".
Description
Pigs are known for their characteristic snouts, which are very flexible and used for digging into the soil to find food. They have small eyes and large ears, and their bodies are covered in coarse hair. Pigs are omnivores, consuming a diet that includes both plants and small animals.
Breeds and Uses
There are numerous breeds of pigs, each with its own set of characteristics. Some of the most well-known breeds include the Yorkshire pig, Berkshire pig, and Duroc pig. Pigs are primarily raised for their meat, known as pork, but they are also used in medical research due to their physiological similarities to humans.
Health
Pigs are susceptible to various diseases, including swine influenza, African swine fever, and foot-and-mouth disease. They are also prone to parasitic infestations, such as mange and worms.
Related Terms
- Suidae: The family to which pigs belong.
- Pork: The meat derived from pigs.
- Swine influenza: A respiratory disease that can affect pigs.
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