Iron Groink

the Iron Groink is a relative of the Gatling Groink that regularly occupies high vantage points. Unlike most other shot-fish, the Iron Groink launches projectiles from the top of its head, as opposed to its face. Its front is still protected by an indestructible shield, however. When the Iron Groink detects a target, such as a leader or their Pikmin, it showers them in vast quantities of small metal shrapnel. This shrapnel doesn't directly harm them, but it can knock them down, momentarily leaving them vulnerable to attacks from other enemies. When defeated, the Iron Groink will enter an emergency shutdown mode and deactivate uneventfully, allowing it to be carried by Pikmin.

Olimar's notes

 * "A surprisingly harmless shot-fish, the iron groink can produce a seemingly inexhaustible supply of metal shards from the pipe atop its head. Luckily for my Pikmin and me, the shrapnel is merely a distraction. It also acts as a surprisingly effective deterrent for nearby organisms. Iron groinks seem more docile than other members of its family and don't seem to deliberately hunt for prey, instead preferring to chase them away by showering any potential threats or meals in metal. Maybe all it wants is to be left alone... if that is the case, I can sympathize with this creature."

Louie's notes

 * "Inedible. Consumption results in the urge to lob held objects."