A Zeb from the original Metroid.
The Zeb are one of the many species that fly out of Air Holes in the ground towards the enemy. They are very lightly armored and do not do much damage. They continue to attack in infinite numbers; this suggests that Zebs have entire colonies built within the structures. Standing in front of a pipe and repeatedly killing them for their health or Missile power ups is an easy way to recharge in the absence of an Energy Station or Missile Station. There is a unique pipe enemy for each region of Zebes. In the remake Metroid: Zero Mission, Zebs also come out of pits/tunnels seemingly dug into the ground.
Official data
Metroid manual
"These occasionally fly out of Air Holes. Remember! It takes one blast of the normal beam to destroy the yellow ones and two blasts to destroy the red ones."
1986 manga
"This beetle monster flies out of ventilation shafts. They are weak, so you can collect full energy by shooting each one that comes out."
Official Nintendo Player's Guide
"These fly out of air holes. These are the weakest opponents on planet Zebes."
Super Metroid Nintendo Player's Guide
"This enemy exits its pipe and then moves toward you horizontally."
