Heir Bulblax

The Heir Bulblax is the first boss-tier enemy in Pikmin X: Deep Freeze and is fought soon after discovering the Rock Pikmin in the Roiling Springs. Initially found buried in the ground with just its eyes and the tip of its shell visible, the creature is larger than a standard Bulborb but smaller than the largest Emperor Bulblax, and is similar to it in that it is protected by a tough, stony shell. However, it is the Heir Bulblax's face which is impervious to damage; the beast's rear is instead plated with crystal that can be shattered by Rock Pikmin to expose its vulnerable flesh. The Heir Bulblax can quickly regrow its crystal armor in a pinch to knock off Pikmin, then chase them down with its tongue waving hungrily. After a few dashes, it can bunker down and emit poisonous gas all around itself to protect itself from Pikmin attacks. It can also occasionally spew poison gas from the sides of its mouth. Upon defeat, the creature vomits out its reward—the second leader—and can be carried back to the Onion for a large amount of Pikmin.

Two more Heir Bulblaxes later appear as mini-bosses in the Vengeful Thicket. Here, they are fought at the same time in a trickier arena lined with brambles.