Amanoan Tropius is a regional variant that evolved after finding themselves isolated within the mountainous, arid jungles of the Amano region. Its original banana-plant physiology has been wholly replaced by traits derived from the resilient Selenicereus cactus, reflecting its Grass/Dragon typing. Its thick skin is coated in protective spines, granting it a high physical Defense, and its once-broad wings have hardened into heavy, segmented cactus pads that store vital moisture. Due to the wings' added weight, powered flight is rare; instead, Amanoan Tropius climbs the towering cliffs of its habitat and utilizes the powerful wind currents in tandem with its internal draconic energy to glide. The species is theorized to have developed its Dragon typing after generations of continually consuming a specific, energy-rich fruit that grows only on the most inaccessible cliff faces.
The distinguishing feature of this variant remains the fruit that grows around its neck, which are now highly-prized, magenta-hued Dragon Fruits. This Pokémon is fiercely territorial over its preferred feeding grounds, using its draconic energy to unleash powerful Special Attacks. Unlike its Hoennian counterpart, the fruit is not freely given; the Amanoan variant only permits harvesting when the fruit naturally ripens and sheds, which occurs seasonally following the night-time bloom of the large, white flowers hidden within its grassy scales. Its spines, while protective, make handling difficult, leading ranches in the Amano region to specialize in partnering with these Pokémon, rather than merely domesticating them.
by Not_An_Actual_Squid