The Proteans, alternatively spelled Protreans, were a sapient race native to the planet Nathas I, found within the boundaries of the Questal sector.
Their inherent form was akin to human-sized gelatinous masses composed of protoplasmic clay. This evolutionary adaptation provided them with the distinct benefit of being able to alter and reshape their physical structure. Furthermore, they possessed the ability to modify their pigmentation, enabling them to camouflage themselves for concealment, simplifying the process of hunting prey, which they would then ingest by absorbing it into their gelatinous forms.
Individuals of this species seemed to exhibit limited cognitive abilities, yet they demonstrated a notable capacity for comprehending simple instructions. As an example, they could be trained to adopt humanoid shapes with consistent training. Within Protean communities, groups typically ranged from five to ten members. Their reproductive method involved two Proteans merging together, physically combining their adaptable bodies into a unified whole. Following this mating process, they would generate a spherical, stone-like encasement, remaining enclosed within it for a period of one standard year. Upon the year's completion, the encasement would fracture open, and the "parents" would emerge alongside their offspring.