* Defense: Tusks are primarily used for defense against predators and other wild pigs. They can be used to inflict serious damage, deterring attackers and protecting themselves and their young.
* Fighting: Tusks play a role in dominance hierarchies and territorial disputes. Male pigs use their tusks to fight each other for resources, mates, and social status.
* Foraging: While less common than other uses, tusks can be used for digging and rooting for food, especially in hard ground. They can help access roots, tubers, and other underground food sources.
* Grooming: Tusks can also be used for grooming, helping to scrape off dirt and debris.
It's important to note that tusks are actually modified canine teeth that grow continuously throughout the animal's life. They can grow quite long, and male pigs often have longer, more curved tusks than females.