Flarrapin exposes its shell to extreme heat to repair and strengthen it. It is said that the average Flarrapin’s shell has been completely reforged 5 times.
The Bazilisk and Totter lines were also alternative designs for Starter Pokémon.
One of Flarrapin's main inspirations is the kajiu Gamera, a giant turtle-like monster that is able to fly by propelling itself forward with jets of flame shooting from its shell. This design origin is the reasoning behind Flarrapin being able to learn the move Fly.
Design origin[]
Flarrapin is based on a terrapin, a type of small turtle. Its spiked, jagged shell, long neck, sharp beak-like jaws and aggressive demeanor are more reminiscent of an alligator snapping turtle, however. It also draws some influence from kaiju, most notably Gamera. Gamera's roar can be heard in its cry.
Name origin[]
Flarrapin's name is a combination of flare and terrapin.