Origins and Physical Characteristics
The Strom hail from the star system Stakkah, located in the constellation Ursa Minor. This system comprises six planets, and the Strom are an invertebrate-coelenterate species renowned for their peaceful nature. Standing approximately 6.5 feet tall (approximately 1.98 meters), their appearance includes a large head vaguely resembling certain Terran dog species, though they are unrelated. Their diet primarily consists of nutrient-rich liquids and vegetation.
Unique Reproductive Biology
The Strom possess a three-gender reproductive system, a rarity in the known galaxy. Each gender plays a critical role:
The Egg Layer: Produces the eggs.
The Fertilizer: Activates the eggs.
The Bearer: Carries the fertilized egg until it matures.
The process begins with pheromone production by the bearer, signaling the need for reproduction. When all three genders come together, a series of chemical reactions activate their reproductive organs. The process must be completed, as interruption leads to fatal consequences due to the untransformed chemical reactions.
Once fertilization occurs, the egg-matrix is transferred to the bearer, who ingests it. After maturation, the bearer ejects the specimen through a lower-body orifice. Despite the complexity of the process, Strom experience enjoyment during reproduction, which they believe is essential for species survival.
Cultural Significance and Relationship with Terra
The Strom culture places immense value on vegetation, which drives their frequent visits to Terra (Earth). They first arrived at the end of the last Ice Age, fascinated by Earth’s diverse flora. Since then, they have visited Terra over 200 times, studying its plant life while maintaining extreme caution around humans.
To the Strom, Terrans are seen as violent, primitive and lacking rationality, a stark contrast to their advanced intelligence and peaceful ways. Despite this perception, they remain committed to their botanical studies and avoid direct interaction with humans.
Galactic Presence and Technology
The Strom have established twenty colonies across the galaxy, a testament to their resourcefulness and adaptability. Their spacecraft are octagonal in shape, and like many advanced species, they possess interstellar capabilities that allow for efficient and discreet exploration.
