Research Notes - Shroomish
Lentus sporum

Shroomish and Breloom are fungi like the related Amoonguss, with Shroomish being a more prototypical member of the kingdom. Breloom is the most developed fungal species known so far, having become bipedal with a physiology very much resembling that of mammals or saurians. While not exceptionally intelligent, they seem to be more perceptive than many other Pokémon even if they seem absentminded on the surface. While notorious for being one of the most common causes of injury amongst Hoenn trainers, Shroomish are irreplaceable in the forests they call home because of the valuable role they play as decomposers.

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Diet

Shroomish feed on the wet, decaying plant matter scattered across their forest homes, playing an important ecological role as decomposers. They especially love Kebia Berries, fresh or rotten. Breloom instead eat the leaves of trees and other plants.

Care

Shroomish require dark, damp conditions in order to thrive. Trainers that maintain compost piles will find that their Shroomish want nothing more than to dive in and bury themselves in the decay. Breloom also prefer the shade, but are not as intolerant of light as Shroomish. They are surprisingly self-sufficient and low-maintenance, and seem to be content as long as they have enough food to eat.

Caution

Shroomish poisoning is one of the most common trainer injuries in the Hoenn region. Luckily, it is not severe and can be quickly and easily treated by most Pokémon Centers. Trainers should carry Antidotes when traveling through forests just in case, however. Unassuming Breloom are very formidable foes that can use their club-like tails to poison threats before pummeling them with a volley of punches. They aren’t aggressive, however, and won’t attack unless approached. ​

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Behavior

Shroomish are distrustful Pokémon. They dislike humans in their territory and will try to stay away if possible. They almost always flee when they sense danger. (-2 / 2 / -2)

Breloom are watchful Pokémon. They dislike humans in their territory, but will not attack unless provoked. They almost always fight when they sense danger. (0 / 1 / 2)