Amuys

Amuys is a fictional species featured in the science fiction novel "A Fire Upon the Deep" by Vernor Vinge. They are a group of highly intelligent, sapient, dog-like creatures native to the Tines, a world characterized by its fragmented continents and extreme environmental conditions. The Amuys are known for their unique social structure, which is based on a pack mentality and a complex system of communal thought. Individuals within an Amuys pack share a hive mind, allowing them to communicate telepathically and act as a single, coordinated entity. This shared consciousness extends to their physical form, as they are born in litters of four or more siblings and remain physically and mentally connected throughout their lives.

The Amuys are depicted as technologically advanced, having developed sophisticated starfaring capabilities. Their society is organized around a collective decision-making process, where the entire pack contributes to every significant choice. This communal nature also influences their interactions with other species; they often struggle to comprehend individualistic sentient beings, viewing them as fragmented and unpredictable. Despite their advanced intellect and technology, the Amuys are also portrayed as fiercely loyal to their own kind and can be quite territorial. Their unique biology and social structure make them a significant and memorable element of Vinge's narrative, highlighting themes of consciousness, individuality, and collective intelligence.