What specific evolutionary adaptation provides *Sus scrofa* protection against snake venom?
Answer
Unique nicotinic acetylcholine receptor mutations.
The wild boar exhibits specialized physiological defenses rooted in its long evolutionary history, which equips it to handle significant environmental adversity. A clear example of this is its inherent hardiness regarding certain toxins. Specifically, *Sus scrofa* possesses unique mutations in its nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. These receptor mutations grant the animals a level of protection against snake venom, a characteristic shared with a few other resilient species such as mongooses and honey badgers, demonstrating how evolutionary pressures sculpt specific defense mechanisms.
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