Bulbmin

Pansarus gluttonae
Bulbmin
Type	Parasiticus pikminicus
Size	37mm
Debut	Pikmin

Bulbmin are an unusual species of Bulborb/Pikmin hybrids. Athough the adults are enemies, the juvenile form can join Captain Olimar as normal Pikmin in Pikmin 2.

Information

This unusual creature is in fact a parasitic form of Pikmin that has infected a bulborb. Unlike Pikmin that nest in onions, this parasitic relative spends its life inside the body of a host, usually a bulborb. Juveniles fall in line and mimic the actions of their parent until maturing to full independence. By burrowing its root-like limbs into the nervous system of the host bulborb and infusing it with natural hormonal excretions, the Bulbmin is able to control virtually all of the host's body functions. However, the host's voracious appetite seems impossible to suppress.

Bulbmin may be Pikmin, but the host needs to be kept alive so the parasitic Pikmin becomes cannibalistic and will attack, meaning it won't be 1-10 free Bulbmin. When you kill the older Bulbmin, the small ones go into a panic, whistling at them then brings them under your command. The largest population of Bulbmin is found in the Submerged Castle.

Juvenile Form

The offspring of a Bulborb that has been infected by a parasitic form of Pikmin, up to ten of these can be seen following their parent in various caves throughout Pikmin 2 (the actual number depends on how many Pikmin are in the area). Though these Bulbmin will not attack, they will helplessly follow their parent until it has been killed, after which they will go into a dormant state. Olimar can summon them to help him at this point, though they will refuse to leave the cave they were found in.

Bulbmin will behave just like any other Pikmin, and can even be turned into other Pikmin if thrown into a Candypop Bud (the most effective use for them, since they disappear after Olimar leaves the cave). Bulbmin are particularly special because they are immune to fire, electricity, and poisonous gas, and they won't drown in water. Though Bulbmin will only ever appear with a leaf at the end of their stalks, they can grow flowers by drinking nectar like any other Pikmin. By doing so, it is shown that they have white flowers instead of pink like the other underground Pikmin.

Trivia

• Louie's Cooking Notes: Grind the meat and season with allspice, salt, and ground white pepper. Press the seasoned meat into satchels, then pan fry them with onions. Prior to serving, smother the brats in Dijon mustard and sauerkraut. Buns are optional.