Calcillans

Calcillans are a hypothetical extraterrestrial species first described in science fiction literature. These beings are characterized by their silicate-based biology, meaning their bodies are primarily composed of silicon rather than carbon. This fundamental difference in biochemistry is the defining feature of the Calcillans and is often explored in fictional narratives to examine the potential diversity of life in the universe.

In speculative fiction, Calcillans are frequently depicted as having crystalline or mineral-like structures. Their metabolism is often described as being much slower than that of carbon-based life, potentially allowing them to survive in environments with extreme temperatures or pressures. Their sensory organs and methods of communication are also imagined to be vastly different, adapted to their unique physiology and evolutionary path. The concept of Calcillans serves as a thought experiment for scientists and writers, pushing the boundaries of our understanding of what life could be.