Kaltars

Kaltars are a fictional species featured in the science fiction novel "The Mote In God's Eye" by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle. They are an alien race encountered by humanity during their first interstellar voyage. The Kaltars are described as an insectoid species with a complex social structure and a unique biological adaptation. They possess a hive-like society with distinct castes, each fulfilling specific roles within their civilization.

Physically, the Kaltars are depicted as being roughly human-sized, with multiple limbs and exoskeletons. A significant biological characteristic is their ability to reproduce asexually through a process that involves a form of "budding" or cloning, leading to a high population density and a constant need for resources. This reproductive method is a key factor in their societal pressures and their interactions with other species.

The Kaltars are characterized by their extreme caution and a deep-seated fear of scarcity, stemming from their evolutionary history on their homeworld. This fear influences their political decisions and their approach to interstellar expansion, making them wary of unknown variables and potential threats. Their technological advancement is considerable, particularly in areas related to resource management and space travel, though their societal structure limits individual initiative and rapid innovation. The novel explores the challenges and misunderstandings that arise from the first contact between humanity and the Kaltars, highlighting differences in biology, culture, and motivations.