Lathmars

Lathmars are a fictional species featured in the science fiction novel "A Fire Upon the Deep" by Vernor Vinge. They are a group of six sapient beings who share a single body, a concept Vinge refers to as a "super-organism." Each individual within a Lathmar is an independent entity with its own thoughts and consciousness, but they are all intrinsically linked and function as a unified whole. This collective consciousness allows them to process information and solve problems in ways that a single-minded species cannot.

The physical form of a Lathmar is unusual. It is described as a large, lumbering creature with multiple limbs and sensory organs, reflecting the combined capabilities of its six constituent individuals. Their society is organized around this unique biological structure, with each member of the group contributing to the overall functioning of the Lathmar. Communication within a Lathmar is instantaneous and telepathic, allowing for seamless cooperation. They are depicted as a deeply philosophical and technologically advanced race, concerned with the grander questions of the universe and the nature of intelligence. Their interactions with other species in the novel highlight the profound differences in cognitive structures and societal organization that can exist in a diverse galaxy. The Lathmars represent a unique exploration of consciousness and individuality within a collective existence.