Metroid Database Bestiary

Yapping Maws live in some of the most inhospitable terrain and are among the few species found in every natural region of Zebes, including Norfair. They are characterized by their powerful and noisy pincers, which generate a distinct creaking sound when repetitively closed. While Maws spend most of their time with their lower body receded deep into the ground, they can lunge outward and snatch nearby victims with surprising efficiency. It's difficult to escape a Maw’s grasp, but that’s not the immediate danger, as Maws prefer to utilize their surrounding environment to inflict harm on their victims; they will drag their catch underwater, into quicksand, into nearby spikes or carnivorous plants, or even into the lava they reside in. The full extent of their tunneling habits is unknown, but their bodies are well-anchored into the surface and also allow them to hang from cavern ceilings.

The only way to kill these creatures is with a Super Missile. Freezing them in place with an Ice Beam will make them easier to run past, but if caught in their grip, it will cause them to release Samus. Unless you intend to attack it, try to jump out of their range or over their territory as quickly as possible.

A Yapping Maw can be seen living inside of a Samus Eater, suggesting they hold some kind of symbiotic relationship. Their nature and physical appearance is also very similar to that of a bobbit worm.