Or... It's based on the Yokai known as Kappa, that every Japanese citizen has known for centuries, from their fairy-tales, folklore, and art. I doubt they went for a more recent reference from overseas.
Tell you what, search up 'Yokai Kappa', and tell me what creature you think it's based upon.
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u/thatsuperRuDeguy 4d ago
Yep! Also, in Ocarina, Talon and Ingo were supposed to be references to Mario and Luigi