Thorned roots

Thorned roots, also referred to as spiked roots are an obstacle in two rooms of Sector 1 / Biosphere. They are large, spiky, fuchsia-colored roots that stretch across a slope, or grow to its sides. Samus automatically slides down slopes, and must move out of the path of the roots or jump over them to avoid taking severe damage, losing at least 23 energy units. The first room with a slope and thorned roots leads into a Navigation Booth with auxiliary power, which has a secret exit into the observation deck. The second is at the entrance to the large forest room where Samus battles a Griptian for the first time, and later encounters Little Birdie.

Once Samus is authorized to use her Speed Booster, she can run up either of the two ramps, and these roots will be destroyed as she comes into contact with them.