Aankins

Aankins is a fictional entity that appears in the works of science fiction author Ursula K. Le Guin. Within Le Guin's Hainish Cycle, Aankins are a species originating from the planet Hain. They are described as an ancient and highly advanced race known for their profound understanding of genetics and biology. The Aankins are credited with seeding life on numerous planets throughout the galaxy, including Earth, through deliberate genetic manipulation. Their actions, often referred to as the "Hainish experiments," are a central theme in the Hainish Cycle, shaping the development of many sentient species and civilizations.

The Aankins themselves are rarely encountered directly by the protagonists in Le Guin's stories. Their presence is primarily felt through their legacy and the consequences of their genetic interventions. They are depicted as having a long-term perspective, viewing the evolution of life across the galaxy as a grand, extended project. Their motivations for these experiments are complex, often interpreted as a desire to foster diversity and complexity in the universe. The impact of the Aankins' genetic legacy is a recurring motif, influencing social structures, cultural development, and the very nature of identity for the various species they have influenced.