Joukkoans

Joukkoans are a fictional sentient species from the science fiction universe of Mass Effect. They are an insectoid race characterized by their hive-like social structure and their reliance on communal intelligence. Individual Joukkoans possess limited cognitive abilities, acting more as extensions of a larger, collective consciousness. This collective, often referred to as the "Joukkoan Mind," directs their actions and provides them with their shared knowledge and purpose.

Physically, Joukkoans are typically depicted as having a chitinous exoskeleton, multiple limbs, and antennae. Their appearance can vary, with different castes or roles within the hive exhibiting distinct physical adaptations. They communicate through a combination of pheromones and a form of telepathic resonance, which allows for the seamless transfer of information within the collective.

The Joukkoan society is highly organized and efficient, with each individual fulfilling a specific function necessary for the survival and propagation of the hive. Their primary motivations often revolve around expansion and the assimilation of resources and knowledge. Due to their communal nature, they tend to view individuals outside of their hive as alien and potentially threatening, though their actions are not necessarily driven by malice but rather by the imperative of the collective's survival and growth. Their interactions with other species in the Mass Effect galaxy are often characterized by misunderstanding and conflict, stemming from their fundamentally different approach to existence and societal organization.