clamperl #366
Type Matchups
Weak to (2x damage):
Resistant to (½x damage):
clamperl
Generation III · #0366 — Bivalve Pokémon
Clamperl is a Water-type Pokémon from Generation III that embodies the mystery and majesty of deep-sea life. As the Bivalve Pokémon, it occupies National Pokédex entry #366 and represents a fascinating example of aquatic adaptation. Despite its humble appearance and modest base stat total of 345, Clamperl holds significant importance in Pokémon lore due to its unique evolutionary properties and the legendary pearls it produces. With a catch rate of 255, Clamperl is among the easiest Pokémon to capture in the wild, though its true value becomes apparent only upon evolution. The species stands out as one of only two Pokémon (alongside Shellder) capable of creating precious pearls infused with mysterious psychic properties, making it culturally significant across multiple Pokémon regions and narratives.
Base Stats
Height
0.4m
Weight
52.5kg
Category
Bivalve Pokémon
Gender
Male 50% / Female 50%
Color
blue
Shape
ball
Habitat
sea
Abilities
Protects against critical hits.
Raises Speed one stage upon being hit by a dark, ghost, or bug move.
Clamperl Biology & Physical Characteristics
Clamperl is an aquatic bivalve Pokémon characterized by its distinctive dark blue shell with silver-rimmed inner edges, measuring just 0.4 meters in height while weighing 52.5 kilograms. The creature's physical composition reveals a fragile, light blue body composed of six spherical extensions with a distinctive pink, pearl-like head in the center, typically depicted with closed eyes and white circular patches on each cheek. The shell itself serves multiple critical functions beyond mere protection; it acts as a formidable hunting tool that the carnivorous Clamperl uses to clamp down on prey with tremendous force, refusing to release its grip until movement ceases. A fully matured Clamperl's shell becomes visibly scarred with nicks and scratches accumulated over its lifetime, serving as a biological record of successful hunts and survival challenges. The Pokédex entries from Sapphire specifically note that when Clamperl's body becomes too large to fit inside its protective shell, this physical outgrowing signals that evolution is imminent, representing a crucial developmental threshold for the species.
Pokedex Numbers
Training
Breeding
Clamperl Breeding, Gender Ratio & Egg Groups
Clamperl maintains a perfectly balanced gender ratio of 50% male and 50% female, ensuring equal breeding potential across populations regardless of sex. The species belongs to the Water 1 egg group, restricting breeding compatibility to other water-type Pokémon within the same classification and limiting cross-breeding diversity compared to more flexible groups. With a base happiness value of 70, Clamperl demonstrates moderate affability to trainers, though the species requires dedicated care and trust-building to achieve maximum friendship bonds necessary for certain evolutionary or moveset optimizations. The egg cycle count of 20, equating to approximately 4,884 to 5,140 steps for hatching, places Clamperl in the moderate range of incubation times, neither rapid nor excessively demanding for dedicated breeders. Interestingly, Clamperl's growth rate classification as erratic creates unusual level progression patterns that may surprise trainers accustomed to standard experience curves, potentially accelerating early growth before plateauing in mid-levels. Breeding Clamperl in captivity requires access to compatible Water 1 group partners, typically limiting options to other shellfish, fin, and aquatic Pokémon, making strategic breeding plans essential for trainers seeking specific move pools or nature combinations.
Held Items
Sprites
Held Items
blue-shard
collectibles
No effect. Can be traded for items or moves.
Cost: 1000
blue-shard
collectibles
No effect. Can be traded for items or moves.
Cost: 1000
blue-shard
collectibles
No effect. Can be traded for items or moves.
Cost: 1000
blue-shard
collectibles
No effect. Can be traded for items or moves.
Cost: 1000
blue-shard
collectibles
No effect. Can be traded for items or moves.
Cost: 1000
pearl
loot
Sell for 700 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 1400 Pokédollars.
Cost: 2000
pearl
loot
Sell for 700 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 1400 Pokédollars.
Cost: 2000
pearl
loot
Sell for 700 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 1400 Pokédollars.
Cost: 2000
pearl
loot
Sell for 700 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 1400 Pokédollars.
Cost: 2000
pearl
loot
Sell for 700 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 1400 Pokédollars.
Cost: 2000
pearl
loot
Sell for 700 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 1400 Pokédollars.
Cost: 2000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
big-pearl
loot
Sell for 3750 Pokédollars, or to Ore Collector for 7500 Pokédollars.
Cost: 8000
TMs & HMs
tm03
ruby sapphire
tm03
platinum
tm03
firered leafgreen
tm03
heartgold soulsilver
tm03
diamond pearl
tm03
emerald
tm03
xd
tm03
colosseum
tm05
lets go pikachu lets go eevee
tm06
yellow
tm06
gold silver
tm06
red blue
tm06
crystal
tm06
emerald
tm06
firered leafgreen
tm06
diamond pearl
tm06
platinum
tm06
ruby sapphire
tm06
colosseum
tm06
black 2 white 2
+420 more TMs/HMs
clamperl's Evolution Chain
Clamperl Evolution, Mega Evolution & Special Forms
Clamperl represents a unique evolutionary branching point in Pokémon development, being one of only a handful of species capable of evolving into two entirely different forms based on held items rather than traditional leveling or other mechanics. When traded while holding a Deep Sea Tooth, Clamperl evolves into Huntail, a sleek and aggressive water-type predator that emphasizes speed and physical attack power. Conversely, when traded while holding a Deep Sea Scale, the same Clamperl transforms into Gorebyss, an elegant and flowing water-type that channels special attack prowess and special defense capabilities. This divergent evolution system makes Clamperl extraordinarily valuable to dedicated trainers seeking to complete their regional Pokédex or build competitive teams with either evolution's specific strengths. The Pokédex consistently emphasizes that during evolution, Clamperl creates a magnificent pearl infused with mysterious energy, and according to multiple regional entries from Diamond and Pearl through to current generations, this pearl amplifies psychic power significantly. The pearls produced are said to be approximately ten times more valuable than those created by Shellder, and interestingly, the pearls that Spoink carries as vital organs are actually sourced from Clamperl, highlighting the species' critical ecological role in ocean ecosystems. This dual-evolution system has remained consistent and central to Clamperl's identity across all subsequent generations.
Where to Find
hoenn route 126
hoenn
+3 more
hoenn route 124
hoenn
+3 more
sinnoh route 219
sinnoh
sinnoh route 221
sinnoh
kanto sea route 19
kanto
unova route 4
unova
+1 more
kalos route 12
kalos
hauoli city
alola
+1 more
alola route 15
alola
+1 more
melemele sea
alola
+3 more
Clamperl Behaviour and Natural Habitat
Clamperl inhabits the seafloor and depths of coastal waters, where it feeds exclusively on aquatic fauna despite its sedentary appearance. The species demonstrates predatory intelligence by slamming its shell closed on unsuspecting prey to prevent their escape, employing a crushing hunting strategy rather than active pursuit. According to Pokédex accounts, Clamperl occasionally requires assistance with locomotion, having been observed being carried by Drifblim across greater distances, sometimes resulting in the Pokémon going missing during these aerial journeys. The creature's solitary nature and slow movement speed (base Speed stat of only 32) make it an ambush predator rather than an active hunter, relying on patience and the element of surprise to capture meals. During the mating season, gender distribution remains perfectly balanced at 50% male and 50% female, though Clamperl demonstrates relatively low base happiness of 70, suggesting a cautious and somewhat territorial temperament. The species' preference for the deepest ocean environments limits its encounters with trainers, explaining both its rarity in certain regions and its status as a prized find for dedicated water-type specialists.
Pokedex Entries
Generation III
CLAMPERL’s sturdy shell is not only good for protection - it is also used for clamping and catching prey. A fully grown CLAMPERL’s shell will be scored with nicks and scratches all over.
CLAMPERL grows while being protected by its rock-hard shell. When its body becomes too large to fit inside the shell, it is sure evidence that this POKéMON is getting close to evolution.
A CLAMPERL slams its shell closed on prey to prevent escape. The pearl it creates upon evolution is said to be infused with a mysterious energy.
It is protected by a sturdy shell. Once in a lifetime, it makes a magnificent pearl.
Generation IV
It makes a single pearl during its lifetime. The pearl is said to amplify psychic power.
When it evolves, it makes a mysterious pearl that amplifies psychic powers when it’s held.
Generation V
It makes a single pearl during its lifetime. The pearl is said to amplify psychic power.
It makes a single pearl during its lifetime. The pearl is said to amplify psychic power.
Generation VI
When it evolves, it makes a mysterious pearl that amplifies psychic powers when it’s held.
It is protected by a sturdy shell. Once in a lifetime, it makes a magnificent pearl.
Clamperl’s sturdy shell is not only good for protection—it is also used for clamping and catching prey. A fully grown Clamperl’s shell will be scored with nicks and scratches all over.
Clamperl grows while being protected by its rock-hard shell. When its body becomes too large to fit inside the shell, it is sure evidence that this Pokémon is getting close to evolution.
Generation VII
Despite its appearance, it’s carnivorous. It clamps down on its prey with both sides of its shell and doesn’t let go until they stop moving.
Clamperl’s pearls are exceedingly precious. They can be more than 10 times as costly as Shellder’s pearls.
Clamperl Name Origin & Design Inspiration
The name Clamperl derives from the combination of "clam" and "pearl," directly referencing both the creature's bivalve shell structure and its legendary pearl-producing capabilities. The Japanese name Pearlulu similarly emphasizes the pearl-based nature of the Pokémon while adding a melodic quality that evokes the gentle sound of waves and oceanic environments. The design itself draws inspiration from real-world pearl-producing bivalves such as oysters and mussels, though Clamperl's predatory nature and active clamping mechanism suggest influence from aggressive clam species as well. The coloration of dark blue with silver accents reflects deep-ocean aesthetics, with the light blue internal body providing striking contrast that becomes fully visible when the shell opens. The six spherical extensions comprising the internal anatomy recall the segmented structures found in mollusks while maintaining a distinctly fantastical quality, and the central pink pearl-like head serves as the visual anchor drawing the viewer's eye. The closed eyes of Clamperl suggest a creature that relies more on sensory detection than visual hunting, appropriate for a deep-sea predator where light becomes increasingly scarce with depth.
Learnable Moves
Clamperl can learn 45 moves:
Move | Type | Cat. | Power | Acc. | PP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| aqua ring | water | Status | — | — | 20 |
| attract | normal | Status | — | 100 | 15 |
| barrier | psychic | Status | — | — | 20 |
| blizzard | ice | Special | 110 | 70 | 5 |
| body slam | normal | Physical | 85 | 100 | 15 |
| brine | water | Special | 65 | 100 | 10 |
| captivate | normal | Status | — | 100 | 20 |
| clamp | water | Physical | 35 | 85 | 15 |
| confide | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| confuse ray | ghost | Status | — | 100 | 10 |
| dive | water | Physical | 80 | 100 | 10 |
| double team | normal | Status | — | — | 15 |
| double edge | normal | Physical | 120 | 100 | 15 |
| endure | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| facade | normal | Physical | 70 | 100 | 20 |
| frustration | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 20 |
| hail | ice | Status | — | — | 10 |
| hidden power | normal | Special | 60 | 100 | 15 |
| ice beam | ice | Special | 90 | 100 | 10 |
| icy wind | ice | Special | 55 | 95 | 15 |
| iron defense | steel | Status | — | — | 15 |
| mimic | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| mud sport | ground | Status | — | — | 15 |
| muddy water | water | Special | 90 | 85 | 10 |
| natural gift | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 15 |
| protect | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| rain dance | water | Status | — | — | 5 |
| refresh | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| rest | psychic | Status | — | — | 5 |
| return | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 20 |
| round | normal | Special | 60 | 100 | 15 |
| scald | water | Special | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| secret power | normal | Physical | 70 | 100 | 20 |
| shell smash | normal | Status | — | — | 15 |
| sleep talk | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| snore | normal | Special | 50 | 100 | 15 |
| substitute | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| supersonic | normal | Status | — | 55 | 20 |
| surf | water | Special | 90 | 100 | 15 |
| swagger | normal | Status | — | 85 | 15 |
| toxic | poison | Status | — | 90 | 10 |
| water gun | water | Special | 40 | 100 | 25 |
| water pulse | water | Special | 60 | 100 | 20 |
| waterfall | water | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| whirlpool | water | Special | 35 | 85 | 15 |
Clamperl Competitive Battle Guide
Despite its modest base stat total of 345, Clamperl occupies a surprising niche in competitive Pokémon battling through its exceptional defensive capabilities and unique ability access. The species boasts a respectable base Defense stat of 85, the highest non-Special Defense value in its stat distribution, providing legitimate wall-building potential when paired with appropriate training. Clamperl's primary ability, Shell Armor, provides complete protection against critical hits, a seemingly defensive trait that becomes strategically valuable in longer battles where critical damage accumulation can swing momentum. The hidden ability Rattled introduces an alternative playstyle, increasing Speed by one stage whenever Clamperl is struck by Dark, Ghost, or Bug-type moves, turning potential threats into setup opportunities for faster action next turn. Most competitive players utilize Clamperl's evolution forms rather than the base species itself, as Huntail and Gorebyss offer superior base stat totals with 359 each, providing more refined stat distributions suited to specific strategic roles. However, Clamperl itself finds occasional use in lower-tier competitive formats and novelty team builds where its defensive profile and ability options create unexpected strategic advantages. The species learns a respectable movepool including Clamp, Protect, Withdraw, and accessible water-type coverage moves through leveling and TM tutelage, though its low Speed and Attack stats limit its immediate threatening potential without significant investment or strategic support from teammates.
Commonly Asked Questions About Clamperl
What type is Clamperl?
Clamperl is a water type Pokemon.
What does Clamperl evolve into?
Clamperl evolves into huntail, then into gorebyss.
What are Clamperl's weaknesses?
Clamperl is weak to grass and electric type moves.
Where can I find Clamperl?
Clamperl can be found in hoenn route 126 (hoenn), hoenn route 124 (hoenn) and sinnoh route 219 (sinnoh) and 7 other locations.
Clamperl Cultural Impact & Franchise History
Clamperl has achieved meaningful cultural presence throughout Pokémon media despite its relatively modest power level, particularly in the animated series Ruby and Sapphire where it featured prominently in the episode "Clamperl of Wisdom." The creature's pearl-producing abilities have inspired numerous in-universe legends and narrative devices across multiple games and media, with the pearls themselves becoming sought-after collectibles imbued with supposed psychic amplification properties. In the trading card game, Clamperl has received multiple card implementations across generations, though it typically appears in support or supplementary roles rather than as a primary competitive card. The species' unique dual-evolution system has made it a favorite among completionists and dedicated Pokédex hunters, with many trainers maintaining collections containing both evolutionary forms to showcase the design versatility of the branching evolution mechanic. Clamperl's association with deep-sea mysteries and hidden treasures has made it a popular subject for fan artwork, fan fiction, and creative reinterpretations exploring themes of protection, patience, and transformation. The pearl-creation lore has inspired numerous in-game questlines and NPC storylines where characters seek Clamperl pearls for various purposes, cementing the species as narratively relevant beyond its immediate combat applications. Environmental and ocean-conservation themed Pokémon communities have adopted Clamperl as a mascot for discussing marine biodiversity and aquatic ecosystem importance.
Where to Find Clamperl in Every Pokémon Game
Clamperl's availability varies significantly across Pokémon generations and regional releases, generally appearing in coastal and oceanic routes within games featuring water-heavy environments. In the original Generation III games (Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald), Clamperl appears on various ocean routes with moderate encounter rates, making it reasonably accessible to players exploring coastal areas. Subsequent generations have maintained Clamperl's availability in water-type locales, though specific routes and encounter conditions vary; for example, in X and Y it appears within Kalos's coastal regions, while in Sun and Moon it inhabits Alola's deeper waters. The Hoenn remakes Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire restored Clamperl to its native environment with adjusted availability reflecting modern encounter mechanics. In later generations including Sword and Shield, Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl, and Scarlet and Violet, Clamperl maintains presence in appropriate water biome areas, though specific routes depend on regional geography and game-specific location design. The species' exceptionally high catch rate of 255 ensures that when encountered, capturing Clamperl requires minimal effort even with basic Poké Balls, making it one of the most reliably obtainable water-types in any generation where it appears. Trading remains essential for players seeking both Clamperl evolutionary forms, as the species' evolution method requires two separate Deep Sea items and access to trading functionality, necessitating either multiple game copies or connection with other trainers.