Why Does Meltan Eat Metal? Unraveling the Mystery of the Hex Nut Pokémon
Meltan consumes metal primarily as a source of energy. This adorable yet enigmatic Mythical Pokémon has the unique ability to absorb iron, and potentially other metals, from its environment. This ingested metal is then dissolved and circulated within its body as a liquid metal, essentially serving as its fuel source to power its Electric-type moves and attacks like Flash Cannon. This metal-eating habit is fundamental to its survival and also plays a critical role in its eventual evolution into Melmetal.
The Metal-Based Metabolism of Meltan
Meltan’s fascination with metal, particularly iron, isn’t just a quirky characteristic – it’s deeply ingrained in its biology. In-game dialogue makes references to magnetite, a type of iron oxide, suggesting a specific affinity for this compound. Here’s a deeper dive into why this is the case:
- Energy Generation: Dissolving metal within its body allows Meltan to generate energy. The precise mechanism isn’t explicitly detailed, but it can be speculated that a chemical reaction occurs involving the metal and some internal substance, resulting in the production of electricity.
- Electric-Type Prowess: This internally generated electricity directly powers Meltan’s Electric-type moves. Without a constant supply of metal, Meltan would likely be unable to use these abilities.
- Evolutionary Requirement: The accumulated metal also contributes to Meltan’s evolution into Melmetal. This suggests that the transformation requires a significant store of metal to facilitate the drastic change in size and structure. The process of evolution involves a single, strong Meltan absorbing all others, further solidifying the idea of metal accumulation being key.
The Societal Implication and the Metallic Meal
Meltan lives in groups, so does the group eat the metal or just the single Meltan to evolve. The metal consuming behavior is a communal activity which helps the future form and evolution of Melmetal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Meltan
1. Is Meltan the Only Mythical Pokémon That Can Evolve?
Yes, Meltan holds the distinction of being the first and only Mythical Pokémon currently known to be capable of evolution. It evolves into Melmetal. This unique ability sets it apart from other Mythical Pokémon, which are typically regarded as final forms.
2. How Does Meltan Evolve Into Melmetal?
Meltan evolves into Melmetal through a unique process. In Pokémon GO, it requires an astounding 400 Meltan Candies. Furthermore, in the anime, multiple Meltan combine together to evolve to Melmetal.
3. Why Is Meltan So Difficult to Evolve in Pokémon GO?
The difficulty in evolving Meltan is primarily due to the high candy cost. These candies can be obtained by catching Meltan, transferring them to Professor Willow, and using Mystery Boxes obtained through Pokémon HOME and Pokémon GO connectivity. This difficulty adds to Melmetal’s appeal and makes it a coveted Pokémon.
4. What are the Best Counters to Use Against Meltan?
The best Pokémon GO counters against Meltan are Fire-type and Ground-type Pokemon. Specifically, Primal Groudon, Mega Blaziken, and Mega Charizard Y are excellent choices.
5. What Happens if Meltan Doesn’t Get Enough Metal?
Without a sufficient intake of metal, it is likely that Meltan would be unable to generate enough energy to sustain itself. This would likely weaken its attacks and potentially stunt its growth.
6. Can Meltan Eat Any Kind of Metal?
While Meltan’s preference seems to be for iron, particularly in the form of magnetite, it’s suggested that it can absorb other metals as well. The exact range of metals it can process remains unconfirmed, but iron appears to be its primary and most efficient fuel source.
7. Is Melmetal Good for Gym Defense?
While Melmetal can be a decent gym defender due to its high CP and overall bulk, there are more effective choices. Strong options include Metagross, Drifblim, Togekiss, and Milotic.
8. What are Melmetal’s Strengths and Weaknesses?
Melmetal is a Steel-type Pokémon, making it strong against Normal, Grass, Ice, Dragon, Fairy, Poison, Bug, and Steel type attacks. It is weak against Fighting, Ground, and Fire type attacks.
9. Does Ash Still Have Melmetal?
In the Pokémon anime, after traveling the world, Ash left Melmetal (along with his other Alolan Pokémon) with Professor Kukui before returning to Pallet Town. So currently, no, Ash does not have Melmetal on his active team.
10. Why Did Ash Leave Melmetal?
Ash’s decision to leave Melmetal with Professor Kukui aligns with his pattern of letting Pokémon live in environments where they can thrive. Melmetal, being an Alolan Pokémon, likely benefited from remaining in that region.
11. Is Ash’s Melmetal Shiny?
No, Ash’s Meltan and subsequently his Melmetal, are not shiny. While it had a slightly different color scheme in its Meltan form (a different nut color), it reverted to the normal color upon evolving into Melmetal.
12. How Rare is Ash’s Melmetal?
Among Ash’s Pokémon, Melmetal is considered one of the rarest. This is due to its status as a Mythical Pokémon and the difficult process required to evolve it.
13. Is Meltan the Only Pokémon to Consume a Specific Material?
While many Pokémon have dietary preferences (e.g., Snorlax eating berries, Sharpedo eating ships), Meltan’s reliance on metal as its primary energy source is exceptionally unique and fundamental to its biology.
14. How Does Meltan Dissolve Metal Inside its Body?
The exact process through which Meltan dissolves metal remains a mystery. It’s possible that it possesses a specialized enzyme or acid capable of breaking down the metallic bonds, allowing it to circulate as a liquid within its body.
15. What If I like Video Games in Education?
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The unique dietary habits of Meltan showcase the creativity and depth of the Pokémon universe, where even the most peculiar behaviors have a logical basis within the game’s world.