Alien species in science fiction often have motives related to their own evolution. Some may be on a quest to find a way to further evolve their species, and they believe that interaction with other species, such as humans, can provide the key. There are also those whose motives are more ideological. They might have a certain view of the universe and want to impose it on other species, whether it's a form of 'universal order' or a religious - like belief system. Additionally, some alien species are simply curious about the existence of other life forms and just want to make contact and communicate, much like we are curious about the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
One common motive is conquest. They want to take over planets, including Earth, for resources or to expand their territory.
In science fiction, many alien species are driven by the need for knowledge. They might travel across the galaxy to study different life forms and civilizations, just like our scientists explore the unknown. Another motive could be survival. If their home planet is dying, they may seek a new place to live, which sometimes brings them into conflict with humans.
Alien species in science fiction are frequently designed to contrast with human values and cultures. Their social structures can be vastly different. For instance, they could have a hive - mind where individuals have no concept of self - identity as we do. Their technology might be based on principles that are alien to us, like using biological functions for energy production instead of mechanical means. Appearance - wise, they may be inspired by real - life organisms but exaggerated to an extreme. For example, an alien might look like a giant insect with wings that can generate electromagnetic fields for communication. These depictions not only fuel our imagination but also make us reflect on our own humanity and place in the universe.
Well, a lot of science fiction depicts alien species in relation to our own fears and desires. For example, some million alien species might be shown as extremely aggressive, representing our fear of the unknown. On the other hand, some are presented as highly intelligent and benevolent, which could be a projection of our hope for something better out there in the universe.
Well, they are often depicted as having a menacing appearance. For example, they might have sharp teeth, large claws, and strange, glowing eyes. Their motives are usually about conquest, like taking over Earth for its resources. They also tend to have advanced, but cruel technology, such as weapons that can cause mass destruction.
The Martians from H.G. Wells' 'The War of the Worlds' are an old - fashioned but still interesting ancient alien species. Their use of tripods and heat - rays to attack Earth was a very imaginative concept for the time. They were a terrifying and powerful force, showing how vulnerable humanity can be to an alien invasion.
I think 'Foundation' series by Isaac Asimov also counts. Although not strictly about 'alien species' in the traditional sense, it deals with different galactic civilizations which can be seen as alien to each other. It's a classic of science - fiction literature.
One of the best alien species in fiction is the Vulcans from 'Star Trek'. They are known for their logical thinking and unique culture. Their pointed ears and green blood make them distinct. Another great one is the Na'vi from 'Avatar'. They have a deep connection with their planet Pandora and their blue - skinned, large - eyed appearance is very striking. Also, the Daleks from 'Doctor Who' are quite memorable. They are robotic - like aliens with a strong desire for conquest and a distinct 'Exterminate!' catchphrase.
The Time Lords from 'Doctor Who' can be considered a species of human in a sense. They are humanoid, with two arms, two legs, and a head. They possess the ability to regenerate, which is a very unique trait. And in the 'Star Trek' universe, there are various humanoid species that could be considered as related to humans in some way, such as the Vulcans, who share some biological similarities with humans and have a complex and logical culture.
It varies. While many science fiction works do capitalize alien species names for the sake of clarity and to give them the status of proper names, some may not. In some cases, if the alien species is being referred to in a more general or descriptive way, the name might not be capitalized. However, as a general convention, capitalization is the norm.
One of the best ancient alien species in fiction is the Goa'uld from 'Stargate SG - 1'. They were powerful and had a complex hierarchical society. They could possess human hosts, which added a lot of intrigue to the story.
Some science fiction features the Zerg from the 'StarCraft' universe. These are insect - like species with a highly organized hive - mind structure. They are designed for combat and expansion. There are also the Asari from 'Mass Effect', an all - female species with a unique form of biological reproduction and powerful biotic abilities.