Nidorino is a Poison-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I. It is known as the Poison Pin Pokémon and is the evolved form of Nidoran♂. Nidorino is a quadrupedal, light-purple mammalian creature with several darker purple patches across its body. It has large, spiny ears with teal insides, narrow black eyes, and a long snout with two pointed teeth protruding from the upper jaw. Its most distinctive feature is the long, pointed horn on its forehead, which is harder than diamond and can secrete poison on impact.
This Pokémon is known for its aggressive and easily angered disposition. When Nidorino senses a hostile presence, all the barbs on its back bristle up at once, and it challenges the foe with all its might. The potency of its poison increases along with the level of adrenaline present in its body. Nidorino uses its powerful horn not only for battles but also to search for Moon Stones, often shattering boulders in the process.
Pokédex Data
- Height: 0.9 m (2'11")
- Weight: 19.5 kg (43.0 lbs)
- Type: Poison
- Abilities: Poison Point, Rivalry, Hustle (Hidden Ability)
Breeding
- Gender Ratio: 100% male
- Egg Groups: Field, Monster
- Egg Cycles: 20 (4,884–5,140 steps)
Pokédex Entries Across Versions
- Red/Blue: "An aggressive POKéMON that is quick to attack. The horn on its head secretes a powerful venom."
- Yellow: "Its horns contain venom. If they are stabbed into an enemy, the impact makes the poison leak out."
- Sword: "With a horn that's harder than diamond, this Pokémon goes around shattering boulders as it searches for a moon stone."
- Shield: "It's nervous and quick to act aggressively. The potency of its poison increases along with the level of adrenaline present in its body."
Evolutions
Nidorino evolves from Nidoran♂ at level 16 and evolves into Nidoking when exposed to a Moon Stone.
Habits and Additions Across Generations
Nidorino is known to live in hot savannas and plains. In Generation 3, Nidorino gained the ability Rivalry, in addition to its original ability Poison Point. The hidden ability Hustle was introduced in later generations, which increases Nidorino's physical attack power at the cost of accuracy. Nidorino's appearance in the opening sequences of various Pokémon games and anime has made it an iconic Pokémon, often seen battling against Gengar.