Ephiner

Ephiner is a fictional species that appears in the science fiction novel "Starfall." The Ephiner are an insectoid race known for their complex hive society and advanced technological capabilities. They originate from the planet Xylos, a world characterized by dense, bioluminescent forests and intricate underground tunnel networks.

Physically, Ephiner are described as having segmented bodies, multiple limbs, and compound eyes. They communicate through a combination of pheromones and high-frequency clicks, a system that allows for rapid and nuanced information exchange within their colonies. Individual Ephiner are highly specialized, fulfilling specific roles within the hive, such as warriors, engineers, or bio-engineers. This specialization is guided by a central governing consciousness, often referred to as the "Overmind."

The Ephiner possess a deep understanding of bio-engineering and genetic manipulation, which they use to adapt their environment and create specialized organisms for various purposes. Their technology often integrates organic components, blurring the lines between the biological and the mechanical. In "Starfall," the Ephiner are portrayed as a formidable, albeit enigmatic, force, whose motivations and long-term goals are not always immediately clear to other species. Their interactions with other galactic civilizations are often marked by a cautious pragmatism, prioritizing the survival and prosperity of their own kind.