Pokémon of the Day #0339
Name: Barboach
Pronunciation: Barr-Boh-Ch
Etymology: Barb + Barbel (whisker-like sensory organ on catfish) + Loach
Type: Water / Ground
Design Origins:
Barboach is based on a pond loach, a freshwater fish of the loach family found in East Asia, known for burying itself in and surrounding itself with mud. They also possess whiskers to detect their surroundings while hidden. Its catfish-like qualities, along with its slender body, may indicate that it is inspired by the candiru, or toothpick catfish. It could also draw from Namazu, a catfish from Japanese mythology which is said to cause earthquakes. This connection would explain some qualities of Pokémon, such as its ability to learn Future Sight and have the ability Anticipation, both alluding to catfishes’ ability to sense upcoming earthquakes, as well as its ability to learn Dragon Dance, since Namazu is sometimes depicted as a dragon-serpent.
Most Interesting Pokédex Entry:
“Barboach’s sensitive whiskers serve as a superb radar system. This Pokémon hides in mud, leaving only its two whiskers exposed while it waits for prey to come along.” - Ruby, Omega Ruby
Most Recent Competitive Standings:
Smogon:
Gen 9: LC
VGC:
N/A
