In this context, the name has been interpreted to mean 'porpoise', as a porpoise and pig have similar round body shapes.

[1] However, this is disputed by some classical scholars who believe that the 'porcus' section of the name referred instead to grunts emitted from fish in question, not any physical similarities to the pig.

[1] The creatures appeared in the Carta marina, and were depicted in accompanying wood carvings, as fantastical beasts with four dragon's feet and a single eye at the navel.

[4] The Sea Hogs were reported as travelling in packs with hundreds of individuals.

[5][4] However, contemporary naturalist John Ray was explicit in stating that the sea swine and porpoise were one and the same.