The Risians or Risans were a humanoid species native to the Federation planet Risa.
Physiology[]
The Risians physically closely resembled Humans of Earth, apart from their most distinguishing external feature being a small, button-like ridge or ornamentation on their foreheads. Despite this similarity in appearance, their internal physiology differed significantly from that of Humans, which posed challenges in medical compatibility. For example, in the 2150s, Risian medical facilities faced difficulties treating Humans due to these anatomical and physiological differences.(DS9: "Let He Who Is Without Sin..."; ENT: "Two Days and Two Nights")
History[]
Centuries ago, the Risians tamed the earthquakes and rainstorms of their homeworld by installing seismic regulators and a weather control system. By the mid-22nd century, Risa had become well-known as a cosmopolitan vacation destination. (DS9: "Let He Who Is Without Sin..."; ENT: "Two Days and Two Nights")
In 2368, Robin Lefler mistakenly referred to the Ktarian game as a "Risian gadget", as William Riker had brought it from Risa. (TNG: "The Game")
In 2374, Sirella insulted Jadzia Dax as being a "Risian slut" for hosting a rambunctious party instead of attending the Bre'Nan ritual. (DS9: "You Are Cordially Invited")
A Risian woman was present at Morn's memorial later that year. (DS9: "Who Mourns for Morn?")
In 2380, several Risians were present in a Risian district on Tulgana IV. (LD: "Envoys")
Culture[]
The Risians were known for their sexually permissive culture. The horga'hn, a Risian fertility symbol, was omnipresent in Risian culture. Any individual who displayed a horga'hn statuette indicated their receptiveness to jamaharon, a mysterious and pleasurable sexual practice. Risian women were described as "imaginative" by William Riker in 2366 and as "voluptuous" by Zek in 2369.(TNG: "Captain's Holiday"; DS9: "The Nagus", "Let He Who Is Without Sin...")
However, despite their reputation for hedonism, the Risians were also quite diligent and prided themselves on providing a good experience for vacationers. (DS9: "Let He Who Is Without Sin...")
The Lohlunat, or "Festival of the Moon", was a popular Risian celebration celebrated at Suraya Bay. (ENT: "Two Days and Two Nights")
The Risan language was not spoken by many non-Risians, as most visitors did not bother to learn it. (ENT: "Two Days and Two Nights")
See also[]
- Risian lute
- Risan mai-tai
- Risian perfume
- Risian traditional