Tellurians

Tellurians is a term often used in science fiction and speculative fiction to refer to hypothetical inhabitants of the planet Earth, as opposed to extraterrestrial life. The word itself derives from "Tellus," the Latin name for Earth. In this context, Tellurians are typically depicted as native species or civilizations that have evolved on Earth, distinguishing them from aliens or beings from other worlds. The concept allows writers to explore themes of terrestrial evolution, human or post-human societies, and the planet's unique environmental conditions without introducing alien perspectives.

The characteristics of Tellurians vary widely depending on the narrative. They can be portrayed as advanced human civilizations, genetically modified descendants of humans, or entirely different forms of life that arose independently on Earth. Their societies, technologies, and philosophies are often shaped by Earth's specific geological, biological, and climatic history. This contrasts with extraterrestrials, whose development would be influenced by their home world's distinct conditions. The term provides a convenient label for a familiar yet potentially divergent form of terrestrial life within fictional universes.