Qwilfish is a unique Water/Poison-type Pokémon introduced in Generation II. This balloon-like fish Pokémon is known for its round body covered in sharp, poisonous spikes. Qwilfish has the remarkable ability to inflate its body by quickly drinking over 2.6 gallons of water, which it then uses to shoot toxic quills in all directions. This defensive mechanism makes Qwilfish a challenging opponent, but it also leaves the Pokémon briefly vulnerable after firing its spikes.
Despite its aquatic nature, Qwilfish is actually a poor swimmer due to its spherical shape. When faced with larger opponents, it attempts to match their size by swallowing as much water as possible. Qwilfish's spikes evolved from scales over time, and they inject a potent toxin that can cause fainting. Interestingly, Qwilfish is the only Pokémon with a name beginning with "Q" that isn't followed by a "U", making it unique in the Pokémon world.
Pokédex Data
- Species: Balloon Pokémon
- Type: Water/Poison
- Height: 1'8" (0.5 m)
- Weight: 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg)
- Abilities: Poison Point, Swift Swim, Intimidate (Hidden)
Breeding
- Gender Ratio: 50% male, 50% female
- Egg Groups: Water 2
- Egg Cycles: 20 (4,884–5,140 steps)
Pokédex Entries Across Versions
- Gold: To fire its poison spikes, it must inflate its body by drinking over 2.6 gallons of water all at once.
- Silver: The small spikes covering its body developed from scales. They inject a toxin that causes fainting.
- Crystal: When faced with a larger opponent, it swallows as much water as it can to match the opponent's size.
- Sword: When faced with a larger opponent, it swallows as much water as it can to match the opponent's size.
- Shield: The small spikes covering its body developed from scales. They inject a toxin that causes fainting.
Evolutions
Qwilfish does not evolve in its standard form. However, in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, a Hisuian form of Qwilfish was introduced, which can evolve into Overqwil after using Barb Barrage in the strong style at least 20 times.
Habits
Qwilfish is known to live in coastal areas and oceans. It's particularly troublesome for fishers due to its habit of spraying poison from its spines. When threatened, Qwilfish quickly inflates its body and launches its toxic spikes, becoming briefly defenseless afterward – a moment that experienced fishers try to exploit for capture.
Additions Across Generations
In Generation VII, Qwilfish's base Defense was increased from 75 to 85. The Hisuian form of Qwilfish, introduced in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, is a Dark/Poison-type and can be found in specific areas like Ramanas Island and Tranquility Cove. This regional variant has thicker and shorter poisonous spikes compared to the standard form, adapted to the colder waters of the Hisui region.