Saiyan

The Saiyans are a fictional humanoid warrior race in the Dragon Ball manga and anime series created by Akira Toriyama. They originate from the planet Vegeta and are renowned for their combat aptitude and aggressive temperament. Saiyans possess strong ki-based abilities and display significant power increases after battles, a trait often described as a Zenkai. A notable physical feature in many individuals is a tail, which enables the Great Ape transformation under a full moon; the tail is removed or suppressed in later arcs.

Biology and powers: Saiyans are biologically similar to humans, with muscular builds and rapid adaptation to fighting. Their signature transformations include Super Saiyan forms—ranging from the first form to Super Saiyan Blue—as well as higher-limit techniques like Super Saiyan God and Vegito/Gogeta fusion forms. The tail historically allowed a Great Ape transformation in response to lunar light, greatly increasing size and power, though it is often removed for safety or plot reasons. Saiyan biology also permits resistance to fatigue and consistent training responses.

Society and history: In-universe, the Saiyans were a warrior people who conducted planetary conquests for their ruler or for other powers, including the Frieza Force. Planet Vegeta was destroyed by Frieza, leaving surviving Saiyans scattered across the universe. Notable Saiyans include Kakarot (Goku) and Vegeta, the Earth-raised Gohan, as well as Raditz and Nappa from early arcs and Broly, a legendary Saiyan with a separate film canon. Many Saiyans on Earth form alliances with humans and other species, influencing major events in the series.

In media and reception: The concept of the Saiyan has become a central element of Dragon Ball's lore and a widely recognized term in anime and gaming culture, shaping discussions of power scaling and transformation tropes.