Spatiotemporal dynamics of wild boar-induced crop damage in Southern Tunisian agroecosystems and the role of oasis characteristics

Wild boars (Sus scrofa Linnaeus, 1758) are increasingly affecting agroecosystems in arid regions, but their impact in oasis environments is not well known. This study investigates the crop damage caused by wild boars in the oasis systems of southern Tunisia, focusing on two different regions: Gabès (coastal) and Kébili (continental). We studied how location, season, vegetation, and farming practices influence damage in 17 oases, using chi-squared tests, log-linear models, and a Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM). Wild boars were found in 57% of the sites, and crop damage occurred in 58% of the sites. Contrary to expectations, Damage patterns did not change significantly between seasons or regions. However, statistical models revealed strong associations between crop damage and specific human-related factors, including fertilization practices, distances to roads, and irrigation. In Kébili, damage decreased with distance from roads, increased with complex vegetation structure, was lower in fertilized fields, and taller palms reduced wild boar activity during summer by altering microclimates. These findings show that land-use has a major impact on wild boar interactions in oasis agroecosystems and point to the need for management plans that fit local conditions.