Here's why pigs are classified as Artiodactyla:
* Even number of toes: Pigs have four toes on each foot, but only two toes (the middle two) actually touch the ground. The other two toes are smaller and don't touch the ground.
* Hooves: Pigs have hooves on their toes, which are modified toenails that help them support their weight and move efficiently.
* Other Artiodactyl characteristics: While not all Artiodactyls have them, pigs share some common features with other even-toed ungulates, such as:
* Herbivorous diet: Many Artiodactyls, including pigs, are herbivores. However, pigs are omnivores and will eat a variety of things including plants, insects, and small animals.
* Ruminant digestive system: Many Artiodactyls have a complex four-chamber stomach that allows them to digest tough plant material. While pigs don't have this type of stomach, they share other digestive similarities with Artiodactyls.
So, the order Artiodactyla is based on the shared characteristics of even-toed hooves and other features that pigs share with other members of this group.