grubbin #736
Type Matchups
Weak to (2x damage):
Resistant to (½x damage):
grubbin
Generation VII · #0736 — Larva Pokémon
Grubbin is a Bug-type Pokémon introduced in Generation VII, classified as the Larva Pokémon and assigned the National Pokédex number 736. Standing at just 0.4 meters tall and weighing a mere 4.4 kilograms, this small insectoid creature represents the first stage of a three-stage evolutionary line that ultimately culminates in the powerful Vikavolt. Despite its diminutive stature and unimpressive base stat total of 300, Grubbin possesses remarkable traits that make it a fascinating subject of study within Alola's diverse ecosystem. Its most distinctive feature is an exceptionally strong jaw capable of remarkable feats, from burrowing through earth to extracting nutrient-rich tree sap, making it a versatile inhabitant of forested and subterranean environments.
Base Stats
Height
0.4m
Weight
4.4kg
Category
Larva Pokémon
Gender
Male 50% / Female 50%
Color
gray
Shape
armor
Abilities
Strengthens bug moves to inflict 1.5× damage at 1/3 max HP or less.
Grubbin Biology & Physical Characteristics
Grubbin exhibits a distinctly larval morphology with a cream-white body segmented by three pairs of small nubs along either side that serve as simple legs. Its most prominent anatomical features are two massive yellow mandibles tipped with reddish-orange, which dominate its head and are flanked by a brown facial region marked with a distinctive reddish-orange structure crowned by a yellow rim. Large black eyes with white pupils grant this creature excellent vision for navigating both underground burrows and forest floors. Two yellow spots appear along its sides, providing subtle coloration that distinguishes this species. The mandibles themselves are extraordinarily robust, capable of snapping through thick tree branches with ease—a defensive capability so formidable that even natural predators like Rookidee and Hoothoot choose to flee rather than engage. Beyond its powerful jaws, Grubbin possesses a remarkable ability to produce sticky threads from its mouth, which it employs as both locomotion tools and tactical weapons during combat.
Pokedex Numbers
Training
Breeding
Grubbin Breeding, Gender Ratio & Egg Groups
Grubbin exhibits a perfectly balanced gender ratio of 50 percent male to 50 percent female, ensuring equal breeding potential regardless of gender. This species belongs exclusively to the Bug egg group, restricting its breeding compatibility to other Pokémon within that classification. With a base friendship value of 70, Grubbin demonstrates moderate approachability compared to other Bug-types, suggesting it responds reasonably well to trainer care and affection. The species requires fifteen egg cycles to hatch, translating to approximately 3,599 to 3,855 steps, making it relatively quick to breed compared to many other Pokémon. Its medium growth rate means that Grubbin develops at a steady pace through training and leveling, neither exceptionally fast nor unusually slow. The straightforward breeding mechanics and balanced gender distribution make Grubbin accessible for players interested in breeding programs, while its membership in the Bug egg group limits it to specific compatible partners such as Caterpie, Weedle, and other Bug-type larvae.
Sprites
TMs & HMs
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
tm06
xd
tm06
black white
tm06
heartgold soulsilver
tm06
omega ruby alpha sapphire
tm06
lets go pikachu lets go eevee
tm06
ultra sun ultra moon
tm06
sun moon
tm06
x y
+413 more TMs/HMs
grubbin's Evolution Chain
Grubbin Evolution, Mega Evolution & Special Forms
Grubbin belongs to a three-stage evolutionary line that represents one of Alola's most dramatic transformations. At level 20, Grubbin evolves into Charjabug, gaining an Electric typing alongside its Bug classification and experiencing significant stat improvements, particularly in Special Attack and Speed. Charjabug then undergoes a final evolution into Vikavolt, one of Alola's most powerful Bug-type Pokémon, through exposure to a Thunder Stone or by leveling up within a magnetic field area (in Generation VII specifically). This evolutionary progression transforms a humble, ground-dwelling larva into a spectacular aerial predator combining Bug and Electric characteristics. The evolution from Charjabug to Vikavolt particularly exemplifies the dramatic nature of Pokémon development, as Vikavolt gains the ability to fly and generates electrical charges through its antenna-like appendages. This three-stage line demonstrates how Grubbin's foundational attributes—its jaw strength, electrical affinity, and predatory instincts—are progressively enhanced and refined through evolution.
Where to Find
alola route 4
alola
+1 more
alola route 1
alola
+1 more
alola route 5
alola
+1 more
alola route 6
alola
+5 more
blush mountain
alola
Grubbin Behaviour and Natural Habitat
True to its classification as a subterranean creature, Grubbin normally inhabits underground environments where it constructs burrows and nesting chambers using its powerful mandibles. According to Pokémon Sleep research, this species is notably comfortable sleeping within dirt, suggesting an adaptation to underground life where fluffy soil provides comfortable rest. These Pokémon are particularly attracted to electrical phenomena and frequently congregate near power plants, substations, and places where Electric-type Pokémon gather. This behavior serves a dual purpose: while they may benefit from the electrical energy in their environment, their proximity to Electric-types primarily serves as a protective strategy against aerial predators, which typically dominate surface ecosystems. When feeding, Grubbin uses its strong jaw to scrape tree bark and extract sap, demonstrating a diet supplemented by both subterranean invertebrates and arboreal plant matter. Their gregarious tendency to form communities near electrical sources indicates a sophisticated social structure and environmental awareness.
Pokedex Entries
Generation VII
Its strong jaw enables it to scrape trees and slurp out the sap. It normally lives underground.
If you find its nest, you shouldn’t stick your hand inside. You’ll get bitten by an irritated Grubbin.
They often gather near places frequented by electric Pokémon in order to avoid being attacked by bird Pokémon.
It spits a sticky thread to stop opponents in their tracks, and then it grabs them in its sharp, sturdy mandibles to take them down.
Generation VIII
Its natural enemies, like Rookidee, may flee rather than risk getting caught in its large mandibles that can snap thick tree branches.
It uses its big jaws to dig nests into the forest floor, and it loves to feed on sweet tree sap.
Grubbin Name Origin & Design Inspiration
The name Grubbin derives from the English word "grub," referring to insect larvae, combined with a diminutive suffix suggesting its small, early-stage nature. The Japanese designation Agojimushi combines "ago" (meaning jaw or chin) with "jimushi" (meaning insect), directly referencing the creature's most characteristic feature. This etymological approach clearly communicates Grubbin's identity as a larval insect defined by its pronounced mandibles. The design itself evokes real-world beetle and beetle larvae, with the oversized jaw structure exaggerated to emphasize the Pokémon's primary tool and weapon. The coloration scheme—predominantly cream and white with contrasting yellow and reddish-orange accents—provides visual clarity while avoiding the vivid pigmentation of more advanced evolutionary stages, appropriately reflecting its larval status. The creature's overall aesthetic successfully conveys both the humble nature of an early-stage Pokémon and hints at the formidable predator it will become, with the menacing mandibles serving as a visual promise of future power.
Learnable Moves
Grubbin can learn 52 moves:
Move | Type | Cat. | Power | Acc. | PP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| acrobatics | flying | Physical | 55 | 100 | 15 |
| attract | normal | Status | — | 100 | 15 |
| baton pass | normal | Status | — | — | 40 |
| bite | dark | Physical | 60 | 100 | 25 |
| bug bite | bug | Physical | 60 | 100 | 20 |
| charge | electric | Status | — | — | 20 |
| charge beam | electric | Special | 50 | 90 | 10 |
| confide | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| crunch | dark | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| dig | ground | Physical | 80 | 100 | 10 |
| discharge | electric | Special | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| double team | normal | Status | — | — | 15 |
| electric terrain | electric | Status | — | — | 10 |
| electroweb | electric | Special | 55 | 95 | 15 |
| endure | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| facade | normal | Physical | 70 | 100 | 20 |
| frustration | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 20 |
| harden | normal | Status | — | — | 30 |
| hidden power | normal | Special | 60 | 100 | 15 |
| light screen | psychic | Status | — | — | 30 |
| lunge | bug | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| magnet rise | electric | Status | — | — | 10 |
| mud shot | ground | Special | 55 | 95 | 15 |
| mud slap | ground | Special | 20 | 100 | 10 |
| poison jab | poison | Physical | 80 | 100 | 20 |
| pounce | bug | Physical | 50 | 100 | 20 |
| protect | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| rain dance | water | Status | — | — | 5 |
| rest | psychic | Status | — | — | 5 |
| return | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 20 |
| rising voltage | electric | Special | 70 | 100 | 20 |
| round | normal | Special | 60 | 100 | 15 |
| screech | normal | Status | — | 85 | 40 |
| shock wave | electric | Special | 60 | — | 20 |
| skitter smack | bug | Physical | 70 | 90 | 10 |
| sleep talk | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| snore | normal | Special | 50 | 100 | 15 |
| spark | electric | Physical | 65 | 100 | 20 |
| sticky web | bug | Status | — | — | 20 |
| string shot | bug | Status | — | 95 | 40 |
| struggle bug | bug | Special | 50 | 100 | 20 |
| substitute | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| swagger | normal | Status | — | 85 | 15 |
| take down | normal | Physical | 90 | 85 | 20 |
| tera blast | normal | Special | 80 | 100 | 10 |
| thunder wave | electric | Status | — | 90 | 20 |
| thunderbolt | electric | Special | 90 | 100 | 15 |
| toxic | poison | Status | — | 90 | 10 |
| vise grip | normal | Physical | 55 | 100 | 30 |
| volt switch | electric | Special | 70 | 100 | 20 |
| wild charge | electric | Physical | 90 | 100 | 15 |
| x scissor | bug | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
Grubbin Competitive Battle Guide
Grubbin's competitive viability is severely limited by its base stat total of 300, which ranks among the lowest in the Pokémon franchise. Its offensive stats show marginally better investment, with Attack at 62 and Special Attack at 55, though neither reaches levels capable of threatening experienced opponents. Defensively, Grubbin struggles significantly, with Defense and Special Defense both sitting at a fragile 45, while its HP of 47 and Speed of 46 leave it vulnerable to almost any assault. However, Grubbin possesses the Swarm ability, which increases the power of Bug-type moves to 1.5 times their normal damage when its HP drops to one-third or below. This ability rewards aggressive play but requires Grubbin to survive until damaged, a challenging prospect given its poor bulk. In practical tournament play, Grubbin is almost exclusively encountered as a beginner's Pokémon or within intentionally restricted formats such as Little Cup, where its early-game status actually provides advantages against other baby Pokémon. Its primary value lies in its evolutionary potential; trainers utilize Grubbin's foundation to eventually reach Charjabug and Vikavolt, the latter of which becomes genuinely competitive.
Commonly Asked Questions About Grubbin
What type is Grubbin?
Grubbin is a bug type Pokemon.
What does Grubbin evolve into?
Grubbin evolves into charjabug, then into vikavolt.
What are Grubbin's weaknesses?
Grubbin is weak to flying, rock and fire type moves.
Where can I find Grubbin?
Grubbin can be found in alola route 4 (alola), alola route 1 (alola) and alola route 5 (alola) and 2 other locations.
Grubbin Cultural Impact & Franchise History
While Grubbin lacks the mainstream recognition of iconic Bug-type Pokémon like Butterfree or Dragonite, it holds particular significance within Alola's regional mythology and ecosystem representation. As part of Generation VII's introduction of entirely new Pokémon species exclusive to Alola, Grubbin embodies the game's emphasis on fresh designs and regional uniqueness. Its distinctive appearance—particularly the oversized mandibles—makes it instantly recognizable and memorable despite its modest statistical prowess. In the Alola region's narrative, Grubbin represents the foundational tier of bug-catching for new trainers, serving the traditional role of early-game capture species alongside other weak but charming creatures. The species has appeared in various Pokémon media, though never as a major focus, instead serving contextual roles that reinforce its nature as a humble larval creature. Fan communities appreciate Grubbin for its design charm and its transformation into the far more visually striking Vikavolt, creating enthusiasm for its evolution line despite the initial stage's competitive irrelevance.
Where to Find Grubbin in Every Pokémon Game
Grubbin's availability varies significantly across different generations and games. In Pokémon Sun and Moon, where it was introduced, Grubbin appears in the early portions of the Alola region's routes and caves, typically encountered at low levels and assigned to the Alola regional Pokédex as entry 0027. In Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, it maintains similar availability as entry 0034. The species appears again in Pokémon Sword and Shield, where it receives the regional Pokédex number 0016, making it obtainable for players of these titles on the Nintendo Switch. In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Grubbin retains its Bug-type classification but the precise mechanics of availability vary depending on game progression and area access. Additionally, Grubbin appears in various spin-off titles and remakes, particularly within Pokémon Let's Go and other Switch-era releases. Its high catch rate of 255 means that players can successfully capture Grubbin using even basic Poké Balls at full health, making it easily obtainable once encountered in the wild.