Bistrians

The Bistrians are a fictional ethnic group featured in the science fiction novel "A Fire Upon the Deep" by Vernor Vinge. They are a sapient species native to the Tines World, a planet characterized by a harsh environment. Bistrians are notable for their unique biology and social structure. They are silicon-based lifeforms, possessing crystalline bodies that can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. This biological difference sets them apart from many other species encountered in the novel.

A key aspect of Bistrian society is their communal consciousness. Individual Bistrians are not fully independent entities but rather components of a larger collective mind. They communicate telepathically, sharing thoughts and experiences seamlessly. This interconnectedness allows them to achieve a high degree of cooperation and problem-solving ability. However, it also means that individual Bistrians may have a less developed sense of self compared to species with more solitary existences. Their civilization has a long history, and they are known for their advanced understanding of technology and physics, particularly concerning the unique energetic phenomena of their star system. They are generally depicted as a wise and cautious species, often acting as observers and advisors in the wider galactic community of the novel.