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The Startle Spore is an enemy in Pikmin 4. It is similar to Creeping Chrysanthemums, however they disguise themselves as mushrooms. It attacks similar to the Creeping Chrysanthemum, but when its tongue retracts, it leaves a puddle of poison.
Notes[]
Dalmo's Notes[]
"These don't just mimic the growth of mushrooms for the fun of catching you by surprise—they also use the opportunity to spread poison around quite indiscriminately. But that's just this darling's idiosyncratic method for catching its prey. We could learn from the way nature embraces such unique and varied creatures."
Olimar's Notes[]
"The defining characteristics of the fungi that grow from its head differ from that of the Chrysanthemum family's Creeping Chrysanthemum, but the makeup of the body out of which they grow is mostly the same.
As a result, we can theorize that like fellow Ambuloradicis the Bulbmin, this species is not an evolutionary variation, but that the body is a parasite that has nested inside a group of mushrooms. Because the hosts are mushrooms, the Startle Spores cannot photosynthesize. Instead, it gains nutrients by catching prey with highly poisonous fluids, or by absorbing nectar in the ground left behind as creatures killed by its poison decompose."
Louie's Notes[]
"If you can successfully remove the tongue's poison glands, you'll enjoy a rare opportunity to appreciate the umami synergy of the mushroom and meat combo."
Gallery[]
How to Defeat[]
It is usually recommended to use White Pikmin, Glow Pikmin, and/or (if Sniff Saver equipped) Oatchi. Attacking from the front wouldn't be a good idea since your Pikmin would be more likely to be killed. Attacking from behind or using Bomb Rocks or Ultra-Spicy Spray is highly recommended.