Bug type
In the Pokémon world, Bug-type is one of the eighteen elemental Pokémon types that Pokémon and their moves can have.
Bug-type Pokémon are known for their diversity, representing various species of insects, arachnids, and other small creatures.
They are characterized by their small size, agility, and adaptability. They often possess features reminiscent of real-life insects, such as wings, antennae, and exoskeletons.
Bug type characteristics
Bug-type Pokémon possess unique strengths and weaknesses that shape their effectiveness in battles.
Strengths
Many Bug-type Pokémon have high Speed stats, allowing them to outspeed opponents and strike first in battles.
Bug-type moves are super effective against Grass, Psychic, and Dark-type Pokémon, providing Bug-type Pokémon with advantageous matchups against these types.
Bug-type Pokémon have access to a wide range of moves, including powerful STAB (Same Type Attack Bonus) moves like Bug Buzz, X-Scissor, and U-turn, as well as coverage moves of other types.
Bug-type chart
Bug-type Pokémon are often found in the early routes of Pokémon games and are frequently encountered as part of evolutionary lines. Some notable Bug-type evolutionary lines include Caterpie–Metapod–Butterfree, Weedle–Kakuna–Beedrill, Wurmple-Silcoon/Cascoon-Beautifly/Dustox, and many others.
Bug-type Pokémon Trainers, known as Bug Catchers, specialize in raising and battling with Bug-type Pokémon. They are often encountered early in Pokémon games and provide Trainers with opportunities to train and level up their Pokémon.
In some Pokémon games, Bug-type Pokémon Trainers appear as Gym Leaders or Elite Four members, specializing in Bug-type battles. They present challenges to Trainers seeking to earn their badges or advance in the Pokémon League.
Some legendary and mythical Pokémon are Bug-type or have Bug-type characteristics. Examples include Genesect, a powerful ancient Pokémon modified by Team Plasma, and Volcarona, a legendary Pokémon associated with the sun and flames.
Bug type moves
Bug-type moves encompass a variety of techniques that Bug-type Pokémon utilize in battles to overcome their adversaries. These Bug-type moves offer a combination of offensive power, strategic utility, and unique effects that Bug-type Pokémon leverage in battles to overcome a wide range of opponents. Trainers often incorporate these moves into their strategies to capitalize on Bug-type Pokémon’s strengths and exploit their adversaries’ weaknesses effectively.
Concluding with Generation IX, there are 34 Bug-type moves, comprising 3.64% of all moves (excluding conditional Bug-type moves). This ranks Bug-type moves as the 4th rarest type alongside Ghost and Fairy, following Ice and preceding Poison. Before Generation IV, all offensive Bug-type moves were physical, but they may now also be special depending on the move.
| Move | Category | Contest | Power | PP | Accuracy | Generation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leech Life | Physical | Clever | 80 | 10 (max 16) | 100% | I |
| Pin Missile | Physical | Cool | 25 | 20 (max 32) | 95% | I |
| String Shot | Status | Clever | — | 40 (max 64) | 95% | I |
| Twineedle | Physical | Cool | 25 | 20 (max 32) | 100% | I |
| Fury Cutter | Physical | Cool | 40 | 20 (max 32) | 95% | II |
| Megahorn | Physical | Cool | 120 | 10 (max 16) | 85% | II |
| Spider Web | Status | Clever | — | 10 (max 16) | —% | II |
| Signal Beam | Special | Beautiful | 75 | 15 (max 24) | 100% | III |
| Silver Wind | Special | Beautiful | 60 | 5 (max 8) | 100% | III |
| Tail Glow | Status | Beautiful | — | 20 (max 32) | —% | III |
| Attack Order | Physical | Clever | 90 | 15 (max 24) | 100% | IV |
| Bug Bite | Physical | Cute | 60 | 20 (max 32) | 100% | IV |
| Bug Buzz | Special | Beautiful | 90 | 10 (max 16) | 100% | IV |
| Defend Order | Status | Clever | — | 10 (max 16) | —% | IV |
| Heal Order | Status | Clever | — | 10 (max 16) | —% | IV |
| U-turn | Physical | Cute | 70 | 20 (max 32) | 100% | IV |
| X-Scissor | Physical | Cool | 80 | 15 (max 24) | 100% | IV |
| Quiver Dance | Status | Beautiful | — | 20 (max 32) | —% | V |
| Rage Powder | Status | Clever | — | 20 (max 32) | —% | V |
| Steamroller | Physical | Tough | 65 | 20 (max 32) | 100% | V |
| Struggle Bug | Special | Cute | 50 | 20 (max 32) | 100% | V |
| Fell Stinger | Physical | Cool | 50 | 25 (max 40) | 100% | VI |
| Infestation | Special | Cute | 20 | 20 (max 32) | 100% | VI |
| Powder | Status | Clever | — | 20 (max 32) | 100% | VI |
| Sticky Web | Status | Tough | — | 20 (max 32) | —% | VI |
| First Impression | Physical | 90 | 10 (max 16) | 100% | VII | |
| Lunge | Physical | 80 | 15 (max 24) | 100% | VII | |
| Pollen Puff | Special | 90 | 15 (max 24) | 100% | VII | |
| Savage Spin-Out | Physical | — | 1 (max 1) | —% | VII | |
| Savage Spin-Out | Special | — | 1 (max 1) | —% | VII | |
| G-Max Befuddle | Physical | — | 3 (max 4) | —% | VIII | |
| G-Max Befuddle | Special | — | 3 (max 4) | —% | VIII | |
| Max Flutterby | Physical | — | 3 (max 4) | —% | VIII | |
| Max Flutterby | Special | — | 3 (max 4) | —% | VIII | |
| Skitter Smack | Physical | 70 | 10 (max 16) | 90% | VIII | |
| Pounce | Physical | 50 | 20 (max 32) | 100% | IX | |
| Silk Trap | Status | — | 10 (max 16) | —% | IX |
Bug type abilities
Bug-type Pokémon often possess abilities that complement their insect-like characteristics and enhance their performance in battles. Here are some notable Bug-type abilities commonly associated with these Pokémon:
Swarm: When a Bug-type Pokémon with this ability has its HP reduced to one-third or less of its maximum HP, its Bug-type moves’ power increase by 50%. Swarm boosts the offensive capabilities of Bug-type Pokémon, allowing them to deal more damage when they are in a pinch.
Compound Eyes: Pokémon with Compound Eyes have increased accuracy for their moves. This ability reflects the keen eyesight of Bug-type Pokémon, enhancing their accuracy in battles and allowing them to land their moves more consistently.
Speed Boost: While not exclusive to Bug-type Pokémon, some Bug-type Pokémon, such as Ninjask, have access to the Speed Boost ability. Speed Boost increases the Pokémon’s Speed stat at the end of each turn, making them progressively faster as the battle progresses.
Illuminate: Pokémon with Illuminate increase the encounter rate of wild Pokémon while they are in the lead position of the party. While not directly related to battles, Illuminate can be useful for Bug-type Pokémon Trainers looking to quickly encounter Pokémon for training or catching purposes.
Shield Dust: Pokémon with Shield Dust are protected from additional effects of attacks used against them. This ability prevents secondary effects, such as status conditions or stat changes, from affecting the Pokémon when they are hit by moves.
Run Away: Pokémon with Run Away have the ability to flee from wild Pokémon battles without fail. While primarily useful for avoiding wild encounters, Run Away can also be beneficial in Trainer battles when the Pokémon needs to switch out without being hindered by trapping moves.
Swarm/Sniper: Some Bug-type Pokémon have access to the Swarm ability, which increases the power of Bug-type moves when the Pokémon’s HP is low, and the Sniper ability, which increases the critical hit ratio of the Pokémon’s moves. These abilities enhance the offensive capabilities of Bug-type Pokémon, allowing them to deal significant damage, especially under certain conditions.
These Bug-type abilities provide Bug-type Pokémon with a variety of advantages in battles, ranging from increased offensive power to enhanced accuracy and defensive capabilities. Trainers often consider these abilities when choosing and strategizing with Bug-type Pokémon to maximize their effectiveness in battles.
Bug-type Pokémon Trainers
Bug-type Pokémon Trainers are individuals who specialize in raising and battling with Bug-type Pokémon. These Trainers have a deep affinity for these small, often overlooked creatures and recognize their potential in battles.
Bug-type Pokémon Trainers have a genuine passion for Bug-type Pokémon and appreciate their unique characteristics and abilities. They often view Bug-type Pokémon as fascinating and worthy companions in their journey to become Pokémon Trainers.
Bug-type Pokémon Trainers are commonly encountered early in Pokémon games, typically in the first few routes or forests. They provide beginner Trainers with opportunities to catch and train Bug-type Pokémon, which are often abundant in these areas.
Bug-type Pokémon Trainers understand the versatility of Bug-type Pokémon and utilize them in battles to adapt to various situations. They appreciate Bug-type Pokémon’s wide movepool, which includes moves that can exploit opponents’ weaknesses and provide coverage against different types.
Bug-type Pokémon Trainers often focus on teaching their Pokémon a diverse range of Bug-type moves. Moves like Bug Buzz, X-Scissor, and U-turn are staples in their Pokémon’s movepool, allowing them to deal significant damage and outmaneuver opponents in battles.
In some Pokémon games, Bug-type Pokémon Trainers appear as Bug Catchers, attending Bug Catcher classes or camps where they hone their skills and bond with their Bug-type Pokémon. These gatherings serve as opportunities for Bug-type Pokémon Trainers to share knowledge, trade Pokémon, and engage in friendly battles.
Notable Bug-type Pokémon trainers are the following:
Bugsy
The Gym Leader of Azalea Town’s Gym
Generation II, IV
Bugsy is the Azalea Town Gym Leader in the Johto region. He specializes in Bug-type Pokémon and awards the Hive Badge to Trainers who defeat him. Bugsy is known for his strategic battling style and his close bond with his Pokémon, particularly his signature Scyther.
Aaron
Member of the Sinnoh Elite Four
Generation IV, VIII
Aaron is one of the Elite Four members in the Sinnoh region. He specializes in Bug-type Pokémon and awaits Trainers in battles at the Pokémon League’s Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. Aaron’s team includes powerful Bug-type Pokémon like Vespiquen and Heracross, showcasing his expertise in Bug-type battles.
Burgh
Artist and the Gym Leader of Castelia City’s Gym
Generation V
Burgh is the Castelia City Gym Leader in the Unova region. Specializing in Bug-type Pokémon, he challenges Trainers for the Insect Badge. Burgh is also an accomplished artist, incorporating his love for Bug-type Pokémon into his artwork and fashion sense.
Viola
Professional photographer and the Gym Leader of Santalune City’s Gym
Generation VI
Viola is the Santalune City Gym Leader in the Kalos region. She specializes in Bug-type Pokémon and tests Trainers for the Bug Badge. Viola is also a talented photographer, using her Bug-type Pokémon as subjects for her photography passion.
Guzma
The leader of Team Skull
Generation VII
Guzma is the leader of Team Skull in the Alola region. While not exclusively a Bug-type Pokémon Trainer, he has a preference for Bug-type Pokémon and uses them in battles against Trainers. Guzma’s team includes Pokémon like Golisopod and Masquerain, reflecting his affinity for Bug-type battles.
Katy
The Gym Leader of Cortondo’s Gym
Generation IX
Katy is a Pokémon Trainer in the Galar region and a participant in the Galarian Star Tournament in Pokémon Sword and Shield’s The Crown Tundra expansion. While not a major character, she is notable for her use of Bug-type Pokémon in battles.
Overall, Bug-type Pokémon Trainers play an essential role in the Pokémon world, contributing their skills, knowledge, and passion to the community of Trainers. They demonstrate the value of Bug-type Pokémon in battles and celebrate the unique qualities of these often underestimated creatures.
Bug type Pokémon
Ending with Generation IX, there are a total of 100 Bug-type Pokémon species in the Pokémon universe. This includes both pure Bug-type Pokémon and dual-type Pokémon that have Bug as one of their types.
| Pokédex Number | Pokémon picture | Pokémon name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| #0010 |  | Caterpie | BUG |
| #0011 |  | Metapod | BUG |
| #0012 |  | Butterfree | BUG FLYING |
| #0013 |  | Weedle | BUG POISON |
| #0014 |  | Kakuna | BUG POISON |
| #0015 |  | Beedrill | BUG POISON |
| #0015 | | Mega Beedrill | BUG POISON |
| #0046 |  | Paras | BUG GRASS |
| #0047 |  | Parasect | BUG GRASS |
| #0048 |  | Venonat | BUG POISON |
| #0049 |  | Venomoth | BUG POISON |
| #0123 |  | Scyther | BUG FLYING |
| #0127 |  | Pinsir | BUG |
| #0127 |  | Mega Pinsir | BUG FLYING |
| #0165 | Ledyba | BUG FLYING | |
| #0166 | Ledian | BUG FLYING | |
| #0167 | Spinarak | BUG POISON | |
| #0168 | Ariados | BUG POISON | |
| #0193 | Yanma | BUG FLYING | |
| #0204 | Pineco | BUG | |
| #0205 | Forretress | BUG STEEL | |
| #0212 |  | Scizor | BUG STEEL |
| #0212 |  | Mega Scizor | BUG STEEL |
| #0213 | Shuckle | BUG ROCK | |
| #0214 | Heracross | BUG FIGHTING | |
| #0214 | Mega Heracross | BUG FIGHTING | |
| #0265 | Wurmple | BUG | |
| #0266 | Silcoon | BUG | |
| #0267 | Beautifly | BUG FLYING | |
| #0268 | Cascoon | BUG | |
| #0269 | Dustox | BUG POISON | |
| #0283 | Surskit | BUG WATER | |
| #0284 | Masquerain | BUG FLYING | |
| #0290 | Nincada | BUG GROUND | |
| #0291 | Ninjask | BUG FLYING | |
| #0292 | Shedinja | BUG GHOST | |
| #0313 | Volbeat | BUG | |
| #0314 | Illumise | BUG | |
| #0347 | Anorith | ROCK BUG | |
| #0348 | Armaldo | ROCK BUG | |
| #0401 | Kricketot | BUG | |
| #0402 | Kricketune | BUG | |
| #0412 | Burmy (Plant Cloak) | BUG | |
| #0412 | Burmy (Sandy Cloak) | BUG | |
| #0412 | Burmy (Trash Cloak) | BUG | |
| #0413 | Wormadam (Plant Cloak) | BUG GRASS | |
| #0413 | Wormadam (Sandy Cloak) | BUG GROUND | |
| #0413 | Wormadam (Trash Cloak) | BUG STEEL | |
| #0414 | Mothim | BUG FLYING | |
| #0415 | Combee | BUG FLYING | |
| #0416 | Vespiquen | BUG FLYING | |
| #0451 | Skorupi | POISON BUG | |
| #0469 | Yanmega | BUG FLYING | |
| #0540 | Sewaddle | BUG GRASS | |
| #0541 | Swadloon | BUG GRASS | |
| #0542 | Leavanny | BUG GRASS | |
| #0543 | Venipede | BUG POISON | |
| #0544 | Whirlipede | BUG POISON | |
| #0545 | Scolipede | BUG POISON | |
| #0557 | Dwebble | BUG ROCK | |
| #0558 | Crustle | BUG ROCK | |
| #0588 | Karrablast | BUG | |
| #0589 | Escavalier | BUG STEEL | |
| #0595 | Joltik | BUG ELECTRIC | |
| #0596 | Galvantula | BUG ELECTRIC | |
| #0616 | Shelmet | BUG | |
| #0617 | Accelgor | BUG | |
| #0632 | Durant | BUG STEEL | |
| #0636 | Larvesta | BUG FIRE | |
| #0637 | Volcarona | BUG FIRE | |
| #0649 | Genesect | BUG STEEL | |
| #0664 | Scatterbug | BUG | |
| #0665 | Spewpa | BUG | |
| #0666 | Vivillon | BUG FLYING | |
| #0736 | Grubbin | BUG | |
| #0737 | Charjabug | BUG ELECTRIC | |
| #0738 | Vikavolt | BUG ELECTRIC | |
| #0742 | Cutiefly | BUG FAIRY | |
| #0743 | Ribombee | BUG FAIRY | |
| #0751 | Dewpider | WATER BUG | |
| #0752 | Araquanid | WATER BUG | |
| #0767 | Wimpod | BUG WATER | |
| #0768 | Golisopod | BUG WATER | |
| #0794 | Buzzwole | BUG FIGHTING | |
| #0795 | Pheromosa | BUG FIGHTING | |
| #0824 | Blipbug | BUG | |
| #0825 | Dottler | BUG PSYCHIC | |
| #0826 | Orbeetle | BUG PSYCHIC | |
| #0850 | Sizzlipede | FIRE BUG | |
| #0851 | Centiskorch | FIRE BUG | |
| #0872 | Snom | ICE BUG | |
| #0873 | Frosmoth | ICE BUG | |
| #0900 |  | Kleavor | BUG ROCK |
| #0917 | Tarountula | BUG | |
| #0918 | Spidops | BUG | |
| #0919 | Nymble | BUG | |
| #0920 | Lokix | BUG DARK | |
| #0953 | Rellor | BUG | |
| #0954 | Rabsca | BUG PSYCHIC | |
| #0988 | Slither Wing | BUG FIGHTING |
Bug-type Pokémon are valued members of many Trainers’ teams, offering speed, versatility, and unique abilities that contribute to successful battles and memorable adventures in the Pokémon world.