Kradans

Kradans are a fictional species featured in the science fiction novel "Children of Time" by Adrian Tchaikovsky. They are depicted as an intelligent, insectoid species that evolved on the planet Necros. Kradans possess a hive-mind consciousness, meaning individual kradans are connected and share thoughts and experiences. This collective intelligence allows for highly efficient problem-solving and rapid adaptation.

Physically, kradans are described as having multiple limbs and exoskeletons, typical of insect-like creatures. Their society is highly organized and technologically advanced, with a focus on scientific research and exploration. They communicate through a complex system of pheromones and subtle body movements, in addition to their shared mental link. Their evolution was influenced by a terraforming experiment initiated by humans, which inadvertently accelerated their development.

The kradans' existence and unique biology present a significant contrast to human society and intelligence within the narrative. Their collective nature shapes their worldview, ethics, and interactions with other species. They are portrayed as a formidable and potentially dangerous civilization, but also as a species capable of complex thought and development. Their story arc in "Children of Time" explores themes of evolution, intelligence, and the potential for non-human civilizations to achieve sentience and technological advancement.