Alatens

Alatens are a fictional species featured in the science fiction novel "Children of Time" by Adrian Tchaikovsky. They are an intelligent, sentient insectoid species that evolve on the planet Xoxo. Alatens are characterized by their chitinous exoskeletons, multiple limbs, and complex social structures. They possess a hive-like intelligence, with individual Alatens acting as extensions of a collective consciousness. This allows for rapid problem-solving and efficient coordination of tasks. Their society is highly structured, with specialized roles for different castes within the hive.

The Alatens communicate through a combination of pheromonal signals and intricate movements. They have developed sophisticated technology, including advancements in bio-engineering and space travel, which they use to explore and expand their civilization. Their evolution is driven by environmental pressures and a unique form of biological feedback loop, leading to rapid adaptation and diversification. The species' development is a central theme in the novel, exploring themes of evolution, intelligence, and interspecies interaction. The novel contrasts their slow, deliberate, yet ultimately successful development with the rapid, often destructive, technological progress of humanity.