The zalaaca were a species that were native to the planet of Naboo. Their physical characteristics were a partial inspiration for the design of the Versatile-Athletic Walker from Baktoid Industrial Systems, which subsequently gained the moniker "zalaaca walker" in reference to the species.
The initial mention of the zalaaca species within the new Star Wars canon occurred in Forged in Battle. This sourcebook, dating back to 2016, was created for the Star Wars: Age of Rebellion roleplaying game released by Fantasy Flight Games. Its origins can be traced to the Star Wars Legends timeline, specifically in The Wildlife of Star Wars: A Field Guide. This book, authored by Terryl Whitlatch and Bob Carrau and published by Chronicle Books in 2001, marked its first appearance.