Chameloid

Chameloids are a species of shapeshifters that some believe to be mythical.

Starfleet officers James T. Kirk and Leonard McCoy met a chameloid named Martia during their imprisonment on the penal colony Rura Penthe in 2293. (Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country)

A non-canon source, Peter David's novel Imzadi, has a chameloid character serving aboard a future version of the starship USS Enterprise. The character is described as tall and fur-covered possibly resembling the "brute" form taken by Martia in The Undiscovered Country.

Chameloid Species as written by Ber

Chameloids are very secretive about their capabilities and most of this record reflects reported data by eye witnesses, not scientific study. Due to the rarity of this species the Federation of Planets listed them on the Endangered Species list on 2292. Due to this listing, their secretive nature and attributes have been accepted as a form of defense against such extinction. All additional information beyond this report must be routed through the appropriate authorities. Requests must follow the standard procedure set out in Federation and Starfleet protocol manuals for endangered species. Inquiries must be accompanied with proper rank or position, access and data release codes to even be considered. False inquiries will be considered as an attack against an endangered species and handled as such.

Planet of Origin: Unknown

Number in the known Galaxy: Unknown, but estimates list 300 as an approximate total.

Political Alignment: To date, known individual alliances are with Federation, Romulan, Klingon, Orion, and Dominion political bodies, most are known to stay neutral in political affairs. Technological status: Advanced but true level unknown.

Intelligence: Intelligence: High levels have been witnessed and records show many in science and technical fields. However no tests have been done to date to establish a species level nor are any likely to forthcoming. Memory retention is high and could be pasted through genetically but recorded evidence is unclear and no confirmation has been offered.

Physical: Morphing species. Capabilities vary but are known to increase with age. Most stay hidden after middle age permanently. Stress or anxiety brings on involuntary color changes and blending possibilities from birth. As they age they gain control over when and how they morph. Their internal structure is unknown. Standard illnesses or risk of illness has not been witnessed. Upon death a total breakdown occurs and little remains are left.

Known morphing limitations are thought to be solid, semi-solid or liquid forms only. They have never been witnessed taking on a gaseous form. Although little is truly known it is assumed that a morph must be practiced and that this talent is an ongoing developmental stage.

Two common appearances have been witnessed and said to be stated as natural states. One, males are large and are similar to a large muscular primate species. Another form considered to be a natural female state is a more humanoid smooth skinned form with feathers and often a plumb on the head. It is unknown if these are optional states to either or imitations of latent memories.

Age: Unknown aging or limiting process. Gender: Two known.

Reproduction: Two known ways.

A. Sexual contact between male and female.

Interbreeding possibilities are unknown and procedure is unknown.

B. Major appendage loss, only in mated Chameloids.

The mating process is unknown. DNA combines throughout the complete Chameloid cellular structure. It is thought that only one mating for reproduction is allowed for appendage loss reproduction. Major limb detachment may occur both voluntarily or involuntarily during life threatening situation or near death.

Social Structure: Unknown but most common social structure witnessed is a solo or independent lifestyle. Their social structure is aloof and tends to highlight individuality.