What specific morphological trait separates the common warthog genus *Phacochoerus* from other Suidae like *Sus scrofa*?
Answer
The presence of unique facial warts
While both the warthog and domestic pigs (*Sus scrofa*) belong to the Family Suidae, sharing traits like rooting behavior and having two pairs of continuously growing tusks, the genus *Phacochoerus* possesses unique morphological specializations. The most visible distinction leading to its common name is the presence of large facial warts, which are not found on other pig lineages within the family. Additionally, while both root, the warthog exhibits a more specialized skull structure adapted for grazing and digging in open savanna environments, setting its evolutionary path apart from the more generalized omnivorous relatives.
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