Was?
Well here is my first attempt at writing this article, so here's to hoping I don't horribly screw up on the format.
Sneasel Line
Morphs [Oak Catalog #]
- Sneasel [215]
- Weavile [461]
Physical Descriptions
Sneasel and Weavile are both small bipedal pokemon that have feline and mustelid like features. Both have retractable claws, although Sneasels only have two whilst Weaviles have three. Both pokemon also have feathers growing around their ears and base of the spine.
Notable Biology
The hooked claws possessed by both pokemon are their main offensive weapon, usually supplemented with ice attacks. Because of this Sneasel and Weavile will often sharpen their claws so they may still be effective in battle.
Another point of interest are the feathers and gems present in this line of pokemon. The yellow gems help regulate the pokemon's body temperature by cooling it whilst the feathers disperse excess heat. Sneasels have two gems, one on their forehead and one on their chest whilst possessing only one ear feather and three back feathers. Upon evolution they lose the chest gem and one back feather whilst elongating the other two. Weaviles grow a crest of head feathers, a second ear feather and a neck crest.
While these adaptations seem counter intuitive, they are important to these pokemon's survival by keeping their body cold enough to use ice attacks and to lower body temperature gained from activity and their high metabolism. If the gems or feathers are damaged a Sneasel or Weavile will become feverish.
The method of evolution from Sneasel to Weavile is also highly atypical. Instead of just gaining experience like most pokemon a Sneasel has to be holding a Razor Claw and level up at night. The exact method is unknown, but scientist suspect the Sneasel incorporates genetic data from the Razor Claw to improve its claws and that sunlight interferes with this process. Another popular theory is that since it is colder at night a Sneasel has an easier time regulating its metabolism when it evolves.
Habitat
Both Pokemon have a preference for cold mountainous areas, although they are just as common in forests. Partially this is because of how the cold helps regulate their body temperature. Also trees and rock outcroppings make ideal places for Sneasels and Weaviles to climb up and ambush prey from.
Diet
Both pokemon are omnivorous with a preference for meat and berries. Younger Sneasels will often gather berries for the pack. Older and more experienced Sneasels and Weaviles will go out in packs and hunt for prey.
Sneasels and Weaviles are notable in that they will go after other pokemon as food first, instead of just attacking smaller animals. Common targets are Stanler, and pokemon from the Swinub, Spoink and Snover lines. This often brings them into conflict with Ursarings who also prey on the same pokemon.
Hazards
Sneasels and Weaviles are incredibly ruthless, competitive, and communal(see Social Section for more details). This makes them battler's best dream and worst nightmare. Newly caught Sneasels have trouble holding themselves back when fighting. This is all very well and good up until their opponent is downed. If the defeated pokemon isn't quickly recalled, there may be a maiming as the Sneasel goes in for the kill.
In Sneasel society it is common for packmates to fight each other to first blood to settle disputes. Rivalries are also encouraged in Sneasel society. What this translates to is that these pokemon will tend to fight the other ones on their trainer's team to prove itself. In particular a Sneasel or Weavile will often have a strong rivalry with the pokemon that was used to capture them.
The third problem with training a Sneasle is their communal nature. Pokemon of the Sneasel line are used to cooperating their pack at all times. A newly caught Sneasel has trouble with standard League battles because they are left out there alone to fight. Trainers are encouraged to start getting their Sneasel to see them as a fighting partner and to to start them off with double battles. Also Sneasels will get lonely and aggressive(more so than usual) if left alone so trainers are advised to let them follow outside of the pokeball often.
In addition to the behavioral obstacles to overcome when training a Sneasel, trainers should also be wary of maintaining their body temp. Normally this isn't a problem, but if a Sneasel or Weavile is taken to a desert environment they should generally only battle at night or indoors. If their gems or feathers are damaged a it is advised they don't battle until they have healed.
Courting
When a Sneasel or Weavile wants to mate with another it will signal it's intention by going out alone and bringing back prey as a gift. Common targets are small bird pokemon like Pidgey or Starly. Either the male or female can initiate this ritual. If the other accepts the bird gift, both of them go off on a private hunt to find a razor claw. If the two can work together well enough to bring down an apex predetor like an Ursaring or Zangoose and take it's claws the two decide to mate.
Social Structure
Sneasels and Weaviles are communal to the point that they are seldom alone. A typical pack consists of ten to thirty individuals. If it gets to a point where the resources can't support the whole group, it will split and move to a different areas.
Sneasels and Weaviles value team work to a high degree that hunting alone is looked on with disdain. Hunting parties of three to six will go out and us ambush and hit and run tactic to wear out chip away at prey.
In the wild only Weaviles mate. This is because the acquisition of a razor claw and subsequent evolution is seen as a rite of passage. If a Sneasel tries to mate chances are it's partner will attack it for not following the ritual properly.
Due to their natural aggression, Sneasels and Weaviles are high competitive in their packs. Fights are common ways to settle disputes especially over food and personal space. They are restricted to first blood though so not to impair the losers performance whilst hunting.
Use in Trainer Culture
Because of their tracking capabilities, natural inclination to teamwork, and ability to learn False Swipe Sneasels and Weaviles are often used by trainers who specialize in Pokemon capture.
Pomeranian Lover
It's interesting that you mentioned how communal Sneasel/Weavile are and how they hate battling alone. Especially because I think the first time Weavile is introduced, it is in the possession of a trainer who has two of them who work together (in the Lucario movie). At least, this is so far as I know, but I thought of that movie when I read that about them liking to battle in groups/pairs rather than alone.
Trainspotter
Just a quick question- are we assuming that the Pokémon all live in different reigons of the nation (for example, you won't find Kanto Pokémon in the Johto or Hoenn reigons and vice versa) or that the nation is more or less homogenized?
edited 31st May '10 1:55:28 PM by CrowT.Robot
Formerly known as Crow T. Robot.
Trainspotter
The last Johto starter, explored.
Chikorita Line
Morphs [Oak Catalog #]
- Chikorita (#152)
- Bayleef (#153)
- Meganium (#154)
Notable Biology
The Chikorita line are a family of small-to-large reptilian quadrupeds. Despite their herds being relatively rare in the wild, they are recognized as one of the official starter Pokémon in the Johto League, and thrive in captivity. They are closely related to the Bulbasaur family and share the evolutionary tactic of plant/animal integrated genome. The main difference is that while Bulbasaur evolutions have their plant components mounted on their back, Chikorita and it's ilk have theirs internalized, and by the end they are almost impossible to seperate.
The most prominent feature of a Chikorita would be both the large, studded "collar" around it's neck and the small leaf on it's head. These are the only visible parts of the plant that grows within the body. The plant receives ample protection against predation, and in return the Chikorita gains the ability to manufacture simple sugars and starches through photosynthesis. However, Chikorita still intake most of their food through eating. The plant grows rapidly, and Chikorita spend long periods of the day sunning themselves or soaking themselves in water.
Upon evolution, the Bayleef's plant components have grown considerably. The small ring around it's neck have grown into partially-unfurled leaves. As there is more surface area with which to photosynthesize, a Bayleef requires less food. It is more independent from its mother or Trainer, although it still relishes physical contact.
It is only upon evolution into a Meganium that the symbiote fully integrates itself into the Pokémon's system. The skin, previously a pale yellow, is flushed with chlorophyll, dying it a vivid green. The plant enters sexual maturity, and the immature "collar" found in previous forms blooms into a brilliantly colored flower. However, photosynthesis will not fully satisfy it's large bulk, and it will spend some period of time browsing for leaves. They are very social animals, and Meganium communicate by emitting pheromones. As symbols of affection, they will intertwine the long, semi-prehensile stamen on top of their head with other animals. It is possible for a skilled trainer to determine the mood of a Meganium by scent. A relaxed Meganium will emit a sweet scent,but an agitated one will give off a sour aroma reminiscent of rotting fruit. In the wild, this serves as a way of warning the herd for threats.
Years ago, Meganium were hunted for their flowers; it was (falsely) believed that these flowers, when properly treated, could be used as an aphrodisiac. It was only after taking some into captivity and passing laws against Meganium poaching that their numbers stabilized. Surplus young produced in captivity were often given away to Trainers. Although Meganium are not under any threats today and many live in the wild, Chikorita are still recognized as the official Grass starter of the Johto region.
Habitat
Meganium are found in large herds in the northern part of the Johto reigon. They live in open woodlands and will often migrate hundreds of miles. One can easily recognize when a Meganium herd has been nearby, as huge footprints, smashed trees, and trampled underbrush are symptomatic of their passing.
Diet
All three animals are herbivorous. They are browsers, and are partial to deciduous leaves. However, this browsing is only a supplement to their photosynthesis. It is estimated that a Meganium must only eat about half of the food that any other animal it's size would require.
Hazards
Chikorita are regarded as the easiest starter in the Johto region. In contrast to the easily startled, flammable Cyndaquil and the bite-happy Totodile, Chikorita are gentle, affectionate, and enjoy hugs and physical contact. However, they quickly become alarmed when there is nobody around, and can become irritable and withdrawn with no contact. This relaxed temperament continues into the Meganium stage, although Bayleef and Meganium are more independant.
Courting
Meganium do not reproduce like most other Pokémon. A male Meganium in musth will emit dense clouds (of up to 100000) of light, airborne spores. These are adhesive, and in the event that one strikes the flower of a female, the female will become impregnated. Every spring, the herd will migrate to ancestral rookeries, where the matriarchs will lay eggs. Several herds may roost in the same location, and the largest ever recorded rookery contianed some fifty nests. The herds will remain for up to two months, when the newly born Chikorita are strong enough to travel with the herd and their mother.
Social Structure
All three evolutions will travel together in large herds of up to twenty. However, there will only be one or two Meganium per herd, referred to as the "matriarch." Male Meganium will leave the herd and live alone. Matriarchs are extremely protective of their herd. One team of researchers watched a battle between a wild Ursarang and a Meganium matriarch that lasted almost an hour and ended with the Ursarang trampled into the ground. A female Meganium in captivity will often regard it's Trainer and other Pokémon in it's Trainer's party as it's "herd" and will defend it to the death if need be.
edited 1st Jun '10 5:14:41 AM by CrowT.Robot
Formerly known as Crow T. Robot.
Was?
A few other things kinda went into my fanon that Sneasel and Weavile are communal. In the manga Silver always let his Sneasel out of its pokeball. As for the disliking battling alone, Sneasel and Weavile have Beat Up(where each pokemon in the party comes in and attacks the target) as their signiture move.
edited 31st May '10 3:04:10 PM by Alkthash
The Wanderer
Torchic Line
Morphs[Oak Catalog #]
- Torchic [255]
- Combusken [256]
- Blaziken [257]
Notable Biology
Primarily found in the tropical Hoenn region, the members of the Torchic line possess a fire sack that can release flames in excess of 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. A Torchic has a very warm body temperature as a result, causing them to feel as hot as a warm water bottle when hugged. This unique biological trait has caused Trainers to use them as a cheap heating source if they can't make a fire if they're somewhere that's cold. Torchic are generally timid and often imprint on the first thing they see, which is why they are often found right behind their trainers or their Blaziken parents.In contrast to the quiet and tiimid Torchic, Combusken are loud and aggressive. They are primarily solitary creatures, and are known to fight upon seeing another to test their strength. Combusken get stronger by running through fields and mountains, and can kick hard enough to break through rock.
Blaziken, Torchic's fully evolved form, stands at six feet high and uses a martial arts style that is used in tandem with fire moves. The flames on its wrists and legs are generated by fire producing glands underneath its skin. The feathers on its wrists are burnt off and regrown as the Pokemon gets older. It can jump over a 15 story building in a single bound, due to powerful leg muscles and feathers for lift. Blaziken also have fleshy pads inside their feet that act as shock absorbers. It is an apex predator in its natural environment, using its flames to corner and dispatch prey.
Habitat
Members of the Torchic line live in grasslands, though Combusken and Blaziken do go up into the mountains to train and breed. A good indicator of the presence of Torchic or its evolutions is the smell of either charred meat or burnt grass.Diet
Torchic eat seeds and small insects, the size increasing once they learn Ember. Combusken have a more carnivorous diet, hunting smaller Pokemon by cutting off their escape routes using fire and either burning or beating them to death. Blaziken have a similar diet and technique to Combusken, except that they hunt bigger Pokemon such as Tauros and Miltank.Hazards
All members of the Torchic line are capable of burning a potential threat to death. Torchic prefer to run from a threat, but can cause second-degree burns when using Ember, and if grabbed can raise their body temperature high enough so that the attacker can get burnt. They also can cause nasty cuts through scratching.Combusken can break bones and are very aggressive and fast, so it is advised not to anger one. Blaziken, while not as aggressive as Combusken, can still easily injure you, especially when their young are threatened. [Trainer's Note: For this reason, it is inadvisable to attempt to catch a wild Torchic, as its parents are often not too far away.
Courting and Hatchling Care
When it is time to mate, male Blaziken make vocalizations that can be heard for miles around. If a female comes, both begin to fight to test the others stamina. This culminates with both Pokemon jumping in midair to meet with a Blaze Kick or Sky Uppercut, and then finishes with them grabbing eachother and spinning in midair downwards, copulating all the while, before breaking apart.The parents then find a secluded spot to lay their eggs, which hatch in about a week. The newborn Torchic are born fully feathered, ready to walk, and are capable of getting their own food, leaving the parents to simply guard them from predators. Once the Torchic are capable of using Ember, their parents depart and they are left on their own.
Social Structure
After leaving their parents, Torchic live in small groups with their siblings, keeping a lookout for predators. Once a Torchic evolves or is close to evolving into a Combusken, it leaves the group and lives a mainly solitary life, fighting anything it deems a worthy opponent in order to get stronger. Except for mating pairs, Blaziken are solely solitary Pokemon.edited 31st May '10 6:54:50 PM by rmctagg09
Eating a Vanilluxe will give you frostbite.
insert title here
30 stories in a single bound? Aren't we trying to be realistic? 10, maybe 15 stories, but 30?
unless some flapping of the wings/arms comes into play...
edited 31st May '10 6:13:19 PM by Blissey1
XP granted for befriending a giant magical spider!
Nidoran needs love!
^Is 1800 degrees for a Torchic reasonable, or more original Pokedex exaggeration?
edited 31st May '10 6:28:09 PM by hazzaboner
So I'm a writer...
Continuing in the Kanto line.Feeling snakey.
Ekans Line
Morphs [Oak Catalog #]
- Ekans [023]
- Arbok [024]
Ekans is a purple colored snake pokemon. A yellow band crosses just below it's head,at what would be neck heigth.It's eyes are also yellow with a black slit pupil and it has a rattle tail. Arbok keeps the same coloring,though over time it fades to greyish color,but have lost the rattle tail and a hood has now grown were the yellow band was. The hood has been found to have six different 'angry face' designs.
Notable Biology
The Ekans line has some of the most powerful poisons,and is also a very strong pokemon. It will bite,but not rely totally upon the poison itself,and is perfectly willing to crush prey as well,though this is more the Arboks then Ekans. Both lines have the ability to disend thier mouth to ingest larger prey.Habitat
They are found in the grasslands and plains throughout Kanto,Johto and Hoenn.Diet
They are a carnivorius group,and tend to prey on smaller pokemon like Rattata and Pidgeys. Arboks prey will sometimes be even larger,and some have been seen taking down an occasional Tauros.Hazards
This line is a very poisonus,and as such,any trainer approaching will not want to startle them and risk a bite. That and thier very real ability to crush without a problem. People also show a very real and reasonable fear of these animals,so any approach must be made with caution. [TRAINERS NOTE: Be careful when pulling them out in public places.They may be affectionate to you,not so much to the other people.]Courting
Courting is a small affair but very complex that takes place in early spring. Five or more gather in a crushed circle of grass that was made by the rival males. Once the females come,what could be called a dance begins between the two males,as each tries to tower over the other while circling. If niether is cowed,they wrap around each other and attempt to outsqueeze the other,the loser giving a screech when defeated. Then the male does the same with the females,though the wrestling is mock.Social Structure
Ekans live in small colonies of close nine or eleven,usually of thier birth family,for protection,though some may be found alone. Arboks tend to be more solitary,though will protect hatchings and the Ekans until they can fend for themselves(Usually a day or so).edited 27th Jun '10 2:57:12 PM by Skorpio
Hugin,not Munin
Nidoran needs love!
The Wanderer
^^^ Considering that a welding torch can reach temperatures of 2000 degrees Fahrenheit, I think it's reasonable.
Eating a Vanilluxe will give you frostbite.
Welding torch flames are highly concentrated, though. Fire attacks are diffused over a wider area...
On the Chikorita thing- might be best to check the Bulbasaur entry again. In the current entry, the bulb actually isn't symbiotic- it's integrated fully into the genome.
(As for species range, the regions are certainly not homogeneous. Though there may be small invasive colonies started by released Pokémon.)
edited 31st May '10 8:34:14 PM by Tangent128
Do you highlight everything looking for secret messages?
The Wanderer
^ I just checked the wikipedia entry on fire, and apparently, a candle fire is about 1,830 degrees Fahrenheit. As for the blowtorch, the temperature I mentioned was actually it's Celsius temperature.
Eating a Vanilluxe will give you frostbite.
Trainspotter
^^ Changed.
Formerly known as Crow T. Robot.
Better than a cross.
Is Hoenn Tropical? I'm pretty sure its on the southwest tip of Japan.
Closet DCLAU fan.
Your army sucks.
Some southern regions are tropical but most of the region seems to range from deciduous to sub-tropical.
Also, Blaziken mate in a awesome combination of Air Jousting and Destructo-Nookie? I approve!
Sorry, I can't hear you from my FLYING METAL BOX!
Trainspotter
Just a question- I have a very... interesting idea for a rather controversial (some say they don't exist) line of Pokémon only obtainable through a glitch. I think that most of you know what I'm talking about. Can I write it up?
Formerly known as Crow T. Robot.
Your army sucks.
Only if you write it as an Apocalyptic Log of some one who managed to encounter "that".
Speaking of which, I should write that article about Arceus...
Sorry, I can't hear you from my FLYING METAL BOX!
Trainspotter
I had a different idea and was going to write it as standard log entry. My idea for it is that it's the result of a Porgyon trade-gone wrong...
Formerly known as Crow T. Robot.
Your army sucks.
Isn't a Porygon gone wrong just a Porygon-Z? Missingno seems to be much more dramatic than a simple glitch. Think about it, from their prospective its not a error in programming. It is an error in reality, something that literally should not exist. It is an affront to everything they know, it is everything wrong with the universe. Its presence threatens the very fabric of reality. It and its more dangerous brethren, turn everything it comes in contact with into mess of random particles. Its existence is proof of the fallibility of the world they live in, one dire mistake that can only be buried. Hidden by normality and ignorance.
Sorry, I can't hear you from my FLYING METAL BOX!
Hmm... maybe refer to it as "the Cinnabar Anomaly". Sorta like the Bermuda Triangle, but it attacks.
Do you highlight everything looking for secret messages?
Trainspotter
Yes, I think I'll do something along the lines of that.
Formerly known as Crow T. Robot.
Of course, nothing is proven. Many of the supposed Cinnabar incidents end up being attributed to some drunk confusing Cinnabar for the more turbulent Seafoam Islands.
Do you highlight everything looking for secret messages?
Trainspotter
I've got it written up, and I'll post it sometime today. It's got more of a Loch Ness Monster sort of flavor (endless speculation as to what it is, no clear sightings, etc.) and I rather like how it turned out.
Also, I think it's time for another update on the top page.
edited 2nd Jun '10 6:51:59 AM by CrowT.Robot
Formerly known as Crow T. Robot.
I like how you mentioned the ethics of using prehistoric Pokemon for battling and the difficulties of caring for a creature from an entirely different era.
edited 31st May '10 11:14:20 AM by rmctagg09
Eating a Vanilluxe will give you frostbite.