Pikmin Evolution/Treasure Hoard

Refuse is the main collectible in Pikmin Evolution, as they act as the main source of Sparklium, which is essential to have. Refuse is comparable to treasures in that it is based on real-world objects, and fruits in that there are multiple instances of the same refuse. However, what truly separates refuse from both is that, after refuse is collected, another instance of it or an entirely different piece of refuse can appear in its previous place or close to it.

Certain refuse has a chance to be "pristine", noted for its brilliant shine. Pristine refuse yields fifty percent more Sparklium than its ordinary counterpart, making them even more crucial to collect. Other refuse has a chance to be "contaminated", indicated by it being covered in a hazardous substance, meaning only a certain Pikmin type can carry it. Refuse covered in hot coals can only be carried by Elixer Pikmin, refuse covered in toxic sludge can only be carried by Germ Pikmin, refuse covered in black smoke can only be carried by Roach Pikmin, and refuse trapped in ice can only be carried by Alloy Pikmin.

Each piece of refuse is categorized under a different family, or collection, unified by a single common trait shared between each piece of refuse. Finding all refuse in a family increases the odds of finding pristine instances of refuse in that particular family.

Lush Lovers Family
These pieces of refuse are based on fruits and vegetables.

Pine Pioneer Family
These pieces of refuse are based on carved wooden objects such as sculptures and toys.

Cold Cuts Family
These pieces of refuse are based on different pieces of meat.

Curing Curiosities Family
These pieces of refuse are based on different medicines.

Old Oddities Family
These pieces of refuse are based on fossils and other animal remains.

Soft Threads Family
These pieces of refuse are based on pieces of clothing.

Canned Curios Family
These pieces of refuse are based on cans and jars.

Lost Memories Family
These pieces of refuse are based on items found in Nintendo games.

Familiar Devices Family
These pieces of refuse are based on gaming devices made by Nintendo.

Foreign Devices Family
These pieces of refuse are based on gaming devices made by third-party companies rather than by Nintendo.

Titan Dweevil Family
These pieces of refuse are weapons dropped by the Titan Dweevil and Scrambled Titan Dweevil. They are based on biological organs.