Memory Alpha
Memory Alpha
(fm, tense, tweaks)
Tags: VE apiedit
(34 intermediate revisions by 22 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Sidebar species
+
{{sidebar species
| Species = Bolian
+
| image = Ardon Broht.jpg
| Image = Ardon Broht.jpg
+
| imagecap = [[Ardon Broht]], a Bolian male ([[2378]])
| ImageCap = [[Ardon Broht]], a Bolian male ([[2378]])
+
| type = [[Humanoid]]
  +
| planet = [[Bolarus IX]]
| ImageSize =
 
  +
| quadrant = [[Alpha Quadrant]]
| Image2 = Alandra.jpg
+
| image2 = Alandra.jpg
| ImageCap2 = [[Alandra]], a [[hologram|holographic]] Bolian female ([[2375]])
+
| imagecap2 = [[Alandra]], a [[hologram|holographic]] Bolian female ([[2375]])
| ImageSize2 =
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
The '''Bolians''' were a [[humanoid]] species who were [[homeworld|native]] to the [[Federation]] [[planet]] [[Bolarus IX]].
 
The '''Bolians''' were a [[humanoid]] species [[homeworld|native]] to the [[planet]] [[Bolarus IX]], who served as one of the contributing [[Federation members|members]] of the [[United Federation of Planets]].
 
   
 
== Physiology ==
 
== Physiology ==
Bolians were distinctively known for a bifurcating ([[cartilage|cartilaginous]]) ridge running vertically along the center of the head and face, and partway down the chest. [[Skin]] color ranged from blue-gray to vivid blue (although [[Rixx (Captain)|Rixx]] was pink), and was occasionally accented with dark blue bands on the head.
+
Bolians were distinctively known for a bifurcating ([[cartilage|cartilaginous]]) ridge running vertically along the center of the head and face, and partway down the chest. [[Skin]] color ranged from light green-blue to blue-gray to vivid blue and was occasionally accented with dark blue bands on the head.
   
{{bginfo|In the novel ''[[Pathways]]'', it is said that Bolian skin is highly prized by [[Cardassian]]s. Cardassian women in particular enjoy wearing it.}}
+
{{bginfo|In the novel ''[[Pathways]]'', it is said that Bolian skin is highly prized by [[Cardassian]]s. Cardassian women in particular enjoy wearing it.}}
   
Bolian males were completely bald, were on average as tall as the average [[Human]] male, and were not known for their physical prowess. ({{DS9|The Magnificent Ferengi}}) Male Bolians have been known to wear [[toupée]]s on occasion. ({{DS9|The Muse}}) Bolian females were predominantly bald, however, there were the occasional few who had [[hair]]. ({{TNG|Allegiance|Ménage à Troi}}; {{VOY|Ashes to Ashes}})
+
Bolian males were completely bald, were on average as tall as the average [[Human]] male, and were not known for their physical prowess. ({{DS9|The Magnificent Ferengi}}) Male Bolians have been known to wear [[toupée]]s on occasion. ({{DS9|The Muse}}) Bolian females were predominantly bald. However, there were the occasional few who had [[hair]]. ({{TNG|Allegiance|Ménage à Troi}}; {{VOY|Ashes to Ashes}})
   
 
In addition to the ridge on their heads, they were also noted for having cartilaginous lining on their tongues that allowed them to consume [[food]]s not normally palatable by other races, including strong [[acid]]s. ({{VOY|Flashback}}) One such example of traditional Bolian cuisine was the consumption of [[meat]] that had been allowed to partially decay. ({{DS9|Crossfire}})
 
In addition to the ridge on their heads, they were also noted for having cartilaginous lining on their tongues that allowed them to consume [[food]]s not normally palatable by other races, including strong [[acid]]s. ({{VOY|Flashback}}) One such example of traditional Bolian cuisine was the consumption of [[meat]] that had been allowed to partially decay. ({{DS9|Crossfire}})
   
[[The Doctor]] was particularly interested in the topic of the Bolian [[digestive system]], and put together a piece on the topic in ''[[Hints for Healthful Living]]'' – a part of the daily {{USS|Voyager}} morning show, ''[[A Briefing with Neelix]]''. ({{VOY|Investigations}})
+
[[The Doctor]] was particularly interested in the topic of the Bolian [[digestive system]], and put together a piece on the topic in ''[[Hints for Healthful Living]]'' – a part of the daily {{USS|Voyager}} morning show, ''[[A Briefing with Neelix]]''. ({{VOY|Investigations}})
   
 
[[File:Bolian blood.jpg|thumb|left|100px|Bolian blood]]
 
[[File:Bolian blood.jpg|thumb|left|100px|Bolian blood]]
 
Bolian hearts were on the right side of their body. This was where [[petty officer]] [[Zim Brott]] was shot by the serial killer [[Chu'lak]] in [[2375]]. ({{DS9|Field of Fire}})
 
Bolian hearts were on the right side of their body. This was where [[petty officer]] [[Zim Brott]] was shot by the serial killer [[Chu'lak]] in [[2375]]. ({{DS9|Field of Fire}})
   
When removed from the body, Bolian [[blood]] was blue in color. ({{DS9|The Adversary}}) The chemistry of their blood was very different from that of other species, especially [[Vulcan]]s. If a blood transfusion was given from a [[Vulcan]] to a Bolian it would result in the death of the Bolian. There were instances, however, when artificial blood was unavailable; when this occurs, existing blood cells had to be genetically altered for inter-species transfusions to be successful. ({{VOY|Prototype}}) [[sex|Intimate relations]] between Bolians and humans typically cause adverse effects to the latter, which might include [[fatigue]], [[nausea]], and [[joint inflammation]]. ({{VOY|Life Line}})
+
When removed from the body, Bolian [[blood]] was blue in color. ({{DS9|The Adversary}}) The chemistry of their blood was very different from that of other species, especially [[Vulcan]]s. If a blood transfusion was given from a [[Vulcan]] to a Bolian it would result in the death of the Bolian. There were instances, however, when artificial blood was unavailable; when this occurs, existing blood cells had to be genetically altered for inter-species transfusions to be successful. ({{VOY|Prototype}}) [[sex|Intimate relations]] between Bolians and Humans typically cause adverse effects to the latter, which might include [[fatigue]], [[nausea]], and [[joint inflammation]]. ({{VOY|Life Line}})
 
{{bginfo|The common denominator between excrement, blood, needing natural protection within the mouth, and sexual relations would be bodily fluid. It is therefore, conceivable that Bolian internal chemistry is corrosive.}}
 
   
{{bginfo|Although no substantial reason was given, details of their "inner workings" were hinted at in {{VOY|Bride of Chaotica!}}. When power shortages affected ''Voyager'', [[Neelix]] warned [[Captain]] [[Kathryn Janeway|Janeway]] that there were only four functional [[waste extraction|lavatories]] for the 150 people on the ship, which was especially a problem as there were Bolians on board.}}
+
{{bginfo|The common denominator between excrement, blood, needing natural protection within the mouth, and sexual relations would be bodily fluid. It is therefore, conceivable that Bolian internal chemistry is corrosive.|Although no substantial reason was given, details of their "inner workings" were hinted at in {{VOY|Bride of Chaotica!}}. When power shortages affected ''Voyager'', [[Neelix]] warned [[Captain]] [[Kathryn Janeway|Janeway]] that there were only four functional [[waste extraction|lavatories]] for the 150 people on the ship, which was especially a problem as there were Bolians on board.| Certain Earth invertebrates can have naturally blue blood from having copper-based {{w|hemocyanin}} to carry oxygen instead of iron-based hemoglobin.}}
   
 
== History and politics ==
 
== History and politics ==
 
During the [[22nd century]], the Bolians had limited contact with the [[Ferengi]]. ({{ENT|Acquisition}}) By [[2366]], the Bolian government was maintaining an uneasy truce with the [[Moropa]]. ({{TNG|Allegiance}})
 
During the [[22nd century]], the Bolians had limited contact with the [[Ferengi]]. ({{ENT|Acquisition}}) By [[2366]], the Bolian government was maintaining an uneasy truce with the [[Moropa]]. ({{TNG|Allegiance}})
  +
  +
{{bginfo|A bottle with Bolian writing from the ''[[Star Trek: Enterprise]]'' episode {{e|Rajiin}} was sold off on the [[It's A Wrap! sale and auction]] on eBay.'' {{stala|7767}}}}
   
 
By the [[24th century]], the Bolians were associated with the [[Federation]], with several officers serving in [[Starfleet]] in the [[2360s]] and an active Federation [[ambassador]] by [[2369]]. ({{TNG|Conspiracy}}; {{DS9|The Forsaken}}) Bolians were among the hundreds of different humanoid species living on [[Earth]] by late century. ({{VOY|Hope and Fear}})
 
By the [[24th century]], the Bolians were associated with the [[Federation]], with several officers serving in [[Starfleet]] in the [[2360s]] and an active Federation [[ambassador]] by [[2369]]. ({{TNG|Conspiracy}}; {{DS9|The Forsaken}}) Bolians were among the hundreds of different humanoid species living on [[Earth]] by late century. ({{VOY|Hope and Fear}})
   
Bolian territory was a hotbed between the Federation and the [[Dominion]] during the [[Dominion War]]. A front was established by the [[Sixth Fleet]] in [[2374]] to prevent Dominion forces from taking the [[Bolarus system]] and outlying colonies. [[Starfleet]] developed a new strategy during the war on the Bolian front which was known as the [[Bolian Operation]]. ({{DS9|Behind the Lines|The Reckoning|Penumbra}})
+
Bolian territory was a hotbed between the Federation and the [[Dominion]] during the [[Dominion War]]. A front was established by the [[Sixth Fleet]] in [[2374]] to prevent Dominion forces from taking the Bolian border and outlying colonies. [[Starfleet]] developed a new strategy during the war on the Bolian front which was known as the [[Bolian Operation]]. ({{DS9|Behind the Lines|The Reckoning|Penumbra}})
   
 
{{bginfo|In a scene cut from {{TNG|The Chase}}, it was implied that the Bolians were not members of the Federation as of [[2369]]. If they indeed joined after this date, it would explain the situation with Moropa, as it seems unlikely that one member world would exist in a state of altered political relations; being Federation members would substantially alter militaristic stance.|Further ambiguity in terms of Bolarus's status in the Federation after [[2377]] is shown in a scene from {{e|Q2}}. In the episode a Bolian hologram is part of a mining dispute that "could lead to war" and the presence of Starfleet officers is questioned by other parties. However, as membership likely does not encompass whole species, membership remains a possibility.}}
 
{{bginfo|In a scene cut from {{TNG|The Chase}}, it was implied that the Bolians were not members of the Federation as of [[2369]]. If they indeed joined after this date, it would explain the situation with Moropa, as it seems unlikely that one member world would exist in a state of altered political relations; being Federation members would substantially alter militaristic stance.|Further ambiguity in terms of Bolarus's status in the Federation after [[2377]] is shown in a scene from {{e|Q2}}. In the episode a Bolian hologram is part of a mining dispute that "could lead to war" and the presence of Starfleet officers is questioned by other parties. However, as membership likely does not encompass whole species, membership remains a possibility.}}
Line 44: Line 43:
 
A Bolian medical [[philosophy]] on euthanasia was developed during their Middle Ages known as the "double effect" principle. This form of assisted [[suicide]] states that "''an action that has the principal effect of relieving suffering may be ethically justified even though the same action has the secondary effect of possibly causing death.''" ({{VOY|Death Wish}})
 
A Bolian medical [[philosophy]] on euthanasia was developed during their Middle Ages known as the "double effect" principle. This form of assisted [[suicide]] states that "''an action that has the principal effect of relieving suffering may be ethically justified even though the same action has the secondary effect of possibly causing death.''" ({{VOY|Death Wish}})
   
Bolian courtship initiation consisted of a male and female Bolian pressing foreheads with [[eye]]s closed, while both participants touched the neck of their partner with both hands, placing the fingers where one would check the pulse of a species with a [[circulatory system]] similar to that of humans. ({{VOY|Someone to Watch Over Me}}) Bolian marriages often involved more than two members. Any additional spouse was referred to as a "co-husband" or "co-wife", respectively. ({{DS9|Field of Fire}}) During a pregnancy, they believed that if one gives birth near a [[warp core]], the experience improved the baby's disposition. ({{VOY|Lineage}})
+
Bolian courtship initiation consisted of a male and female Bolian pressing foreheads with [[eye]]s closed, while both participants touched the neck of their partner with both hands, placing the fingers where one would check the pulse of a species with a [[circulatory system]] similar to that of humans. ({{VOY|Someone to Watch Over Me}}) Bolian marriages sometimes involved more than two members. Any additional spouse was referred to as a "co-husband" or "co-wife", respectively. ({{DS9|Field of Fire}}) During a pregnancy, they believed that if one gives birth near a [[warp core]], the experience improved the baby's disposition. ({{VOY|Lineage}})
   
Bolian individuals tended to be highly outspoken, even when it was not requested. ({{TNG|Ensign Ro}}, et. al.) Due to the "good nature" personality types often perceived in Bolians, they were often accustomed to working in various service professions. Bolian [[barber]]s and [[waiter]]s have been employed aboard the {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} during its mission. ({{TNG|Data's Day}}, et al.) Captain Janeway once encountered the personality of an [[assimilated]] Bolian [[manicurist]] during a discussion with [[Seven of Nine]]. ({{VOY|Infinite Regress}}) Bolian shop owners and restaurateurs maintained a presence on the [[Promenade]] of [[Deep Space 9]]. ({{DS9|Shadowplay|Resurrection|Crossfire}})
+
Bolian individuals tended to be highly outspoken, even when it was not requested. ({{TNG|Ensign Ro}}, et. al.) Due to the "good nature" personality types often perceived in Bolians, they were often accustomed to working in various service professions. Bolian [[barber]]s and [[waiter]]s were employed aboard the {{USS|Enterprise|NCC-1701-D|-D}} during its mission. ({{TNG|Data's Day}}, et al.) Captain Janeway once encountered the personality of an [[assimilated]] Bolian [[manicurist]] during a discussion with [[Seven of Nine]]. ({{VOY|Infinite Regress}}) Bolian shop owners and restaurateurs maintained a presence on the [[Promenade]] of [[Deep Space 9]]. ({{DS9|Shadowplay|Resurrection|Crossfire}})
   
A form of greeting involved extending the hand as if for a human handshake, but with the palm down and the fingers curved part way. ({{TNG|Conspiracy}})
+
A form of greeting involved extending the hand as if for a Human handshake, but with the palm down and the fingers curved part way. ({{TNG|Conspiracy}})
   
 
Bolian-written histories of [[21st century]] Earth took special notice of the allegedly poor state of Human [[plumbing]] during that time period. ({{VOY|11:59}})
 
Bolian-written histories of [[21st century]] Earth took special notice of the allegedly poor state of Human [[plumbing]] during that time period. ({{VOY|11:59}})
Line 54: Line 53:
 
=== Language ===
 
=== Language ===
 
[[File:Bolian script.gif|thumb|Bolian [[language]] script]]
 
[[File:Bolian script.gif|thumb|Bolian [[language]] script]]
The human name ''Frederick'' bore a close resemblance to an impolite Bolian term. ({{VOY|Dreadnought}})
+
The Human name ''Frederick'' bore a close resemblance to an impolite Bolian term. ({{VOY|Dreadnought}})
   
 
=== Cuisine ===
 
=== Cuisine ===
Line 69: Line 68:
 
== Economy and trade ==
 
== Economy and trade ==
 
[[File:SymbolForTheBankOfBolias.jpg|thumb|Symbol for the Bank of Bolias]]
 
[[File:SymbolForTheBankOfBolias.jpg|thumb|Symbol for the Bank of Bolias]]
The [[Bank of Bolias]] was the primary financial institute of the Bolians and many off-worlders. Fluctuations in Bolian currency played an important role in [[Alpha Quadrant]] trade.
+
The [[Bank of Bolias]] was the primary financial institution of the Bolians and many off-worlders. Fluctuations in Bolian currency played an important role in [[Alpha Quadrant]] trade.
   
In [[2371]], there was a run on the [[Bolian Credit Exchange]] which played havoc with the markets. Due to this, [[Quark]], the [[Ferengi]] trade intermediary between the [[Karemma]] and the Federation, charged [[Hanok]] three percent on the value lost due to "unforeseen" currency fluctuations in the Bolian Credit Exchange for their shipment of [[Karemman fleece]]. ({{DS9|Starship Down}})
+
In [[2371]], [[Quark]], the [[Ferengi]] trade intermediary between the [[Karemma]] and the Federation, discussed Bolian currency fluctuations with [[Hanok]]. ({{DS9|Starship Down}})
   
 
The Bolians were among many Federation races that took advantage of the [[starbase]] [[Deep Space 9]] and the [[Bajoran wormhole]]. [[Bolian vessel]]s frequently conducted trade through the station during the [[2370s]], often falling victim to nearby [[Maquis]] raids. ({{DS9|Tribunal}}) In 2371, a Maquis ship disabled two [[Bolian freighter]]s near the [[Demilitarized Zone]] and stole its shipment of [[photon launcher]]s. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part I}}) The Maquis would again attack two Bolian freighters in 2373, stealing several thousand tons of [[rhodium nitrite]] and [[selenium]]. ({{DS9|For the Uniform}})
 
The Bolians were among many Federation races that took advantage of the [[starbase]] [[Deep Space 9]] and the [[Bajoran wormhole]]. [[Bolian vessel]]s frequently conducted trade through the station during the [[2370s]], often falling victim to nearby [[Maquis]] raids. ({{DS9|Tribunal}}) In 2371, a Maquis ship disabled two [[Bolian freighter]]s near the [[Demilitarized Zone]] and stole its shipment of [[photon launcher]]s. ({{DS9|The Maquis, Part I}}) The Maquis would again attack two Bolian freighters in 2373, stealing several thousand tons of [[rhodium nitrite]] and [[selenium]]. ({{DS9|For the Uniform}})
Line 88: Line 87:
 
<div class="appear">
 
<div class="appear">
 
* {{TNG}}
 
* {{TNG}}
** {{e|Conspiracy}}
+
** {{e|Conspiracy}} (Season 1)
** {{e|Allegiance}}
+
** {{e|Allegiance}} (Season 3)
 
** {{e|Ménage à Troi}}
 
** {{e|Ménage à Troi}}
** {{e|Data's Day}}
+
** {{e|Data's Day}} (Season 4)
 
** {{e|First Contact}}
 
** {{e|First Contact}}
 
** {{e|Qpid}}
 
** {{e|Qpid}}
** {{e|The Host}}
+
** {{e|The Host}}
** {{e|Ensign Ro}}
+
** {{e|Ensign Ro}} (Season 5)
** {{e|Time's Arrow, Part II}}
+
** {{e|Time's Arrow, Part II}} (Season 6)
 
** {{e|Schisms}}
 
** {{e|Schisms}}
 
** {{e|Birthright, Part I}}
 
** {{e|Birthright, Part I}}
Line 105: Line 104:
 
** {{film|10}}
 
** {{film|10}}
 
* {{DS9}}
 
* {{DS9}}
** {{e|Emissary}}
+
** {{e|Emissary}} (Season 1)
 
** {{e|Babel}}
 
** {{e|Babel}}
 
** {{e|Captive Pursuit}}
 
** {{e|Captive Pursuit}}
 
** {{e|The Forsaken}}
 
** {{e|The Forsaken}}
** {{e|The Siege}}
+
** {{e|The Siege}} (Season 2)
 
** {{e|Rivals}}
 
** {{e|Rivals}}
 
** {{e|Whispers}}
 
** {{e|Whispers}}
Line 120: Line 119:
 
** {{e|Tribunal}}
 
** {{e|Tribunal}}
 
** {{e|The Jem'Hadar}}
 
** {{e|The Jem'Hadar}}
** {{e|The Search, Part II}}
+
** {{e|The Search, Part II}} (Season 3)
 
** {{e|Meridian}}
 
** {{e|Meridian}}
 
** {{e|Visionary}}
 
** {{e|Visionary}}
Line 127: Line 126:
 
** {{e|Facets}}
 
** {{e|Facets}}
 
** {{e|The Adversary}}
 
** {{e|The Adversary}}
** {{e|The Way of the Warrior}}
+
** {{e|The Way of the Warrior}} (Season 4)
 
** {{e|The Visitor}}
 
** {{e|The Visitor}}
 
** {{e|Homefront}}
 
** {{e|Homefront}}
 
** {{e|Paradise Lost}}
 
** {{e|Paradise Lost}}
** {{e|Crossfire}}
+
** {{e|Crossfire}}
 
** {{e|Bar Association}}
 
** {{e|Bar Association}}
 
** {{e|Hard Time}}
 
** {{e|Hard Time}}
Line 137: Line 136:
 
** {{e|For the Cause}}
 
** {{e|For the Cause}}
 
** {{e|Broken Link}}
 
** {{e|Broken Link}}
** {{e|Apocalypse Rising}}
+
** {{e|Apocalypse Rising}} (Season 5)
 
** {{e|Looking for par'Mach in All the Wrong Places}}
 
** {{e|Looking for par'Mach in All the Wrong Places}}
 
** {{e|Nor the Battle to the Strong}}
 
** {{e|Nor the Battle to the Strong}}
Line 149: Line 148:
 
** {{e|Empok Nor}}
 
** {{e|Empok Nor}}
 
** {{e|In the Cards}}
 
** {{e|In the Cards}}
** {{e|You Are Cordially Invited}}
+
** {{e|You Are Cordially Invited}} (Season 6)
 
** {{e|Who Mourns for Morn?}}
 
** {{e|Who Mourns for Morn?}}
 
** {{e|Honor Among Thieves}}
 
** {{e|Honor Among Thieves}}
 
** {{e|Tears of the Prophets}}
 
** {{e|Tears of the Prophets}}
** {{e|Afterimage}}
+
** {{e|Afterimage}} (Season 7)
 
** {{e|Field of Fire}}
 
** {{e|Field of Fire}}
 
* {{VOY}}
 
* {{VOY}}
** {{e|Caretaker}}
+
** {{e|Caretaker}} (Season 1)
 
** {{e|Learning Curve}}
 
** {{e|Learning Curve}}
** {{e|Non Sequitur}}
+
** {{e|Non Sequitur}} (Season 2)
** {{e|Hunters}}
+
** {{e|Hunters}} (Season 4)
** {{e|In the Flesh}}
+
** {{e|In the Flesh}} (Season 5)
 
** {{e|Someone to Watch Over Me}}
 
** {{e|Someone to Watch Over Me}}
** {{e|Repression}}
+
** {{e|Repression}} (Season 7)
 
** {{e|Workforce}}
 
** {{e|Workforce}}
 
** {{e|Workforce, Part II}}
 
** {{e|Workforce, Part II}}
** {{e|Q2}} (hologram)
+
** {{e|Q2}} (Hologram)
 
** {{e|Author, Author}}
 
** {{e|Author, Author}}
 
** {{e|Endgame}}
 
** {{e|Endgame}}
 
</div>
 
</div>
   
=== Background ===
+
=== Background information ===
Bolians are named after [[Cliff Bole]], who directed the first ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation]]'' episode to feature the species, {{e|Conspiracy}}. (''[[Star Trek Encyclopedia]]'') Bolians were first identified by name in {{e|Allegiance}}. The [[Cliffs of Bole]], mentioned in {{e|Invasive Procedures}} are a further play on his name.
+
Bolians are named after [[Cliff Bole]], who directed the first ''[[Star Trek: The Next Generation]]'' episode to feature the species, {{e|Conspiracy}}. (''[[Star Trek Encyclopedia]]'') Bolians were first identified by name in {{e|Allegiance}}. The [[Cliffs of Bole]], mentioned in {{e|Invasive Procedures}} are a further play on his name.
  +
 
=== External link ===
 
* {{mbeta}}
   
  +
{{featured|date=April 2005|id=80764}}
== External link ==
 
* {{NCwiki}}
 
   
{{featured}}
 
   
 
[[de:Bolianer]]
 
[[de:Bolianer]]
 
[[es:Bolianos]]
 
[[es:Bolianos]]
 
[[fr:Bolien]]
 
[[fr:Bolien]]
[[ja:ボリア]]
+
[[ja:ボリア]]
 
[[nl:Bolian]]
 
[[nl:Bolian]]
 
[[Category:Species]]
 
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Bolians| ]]
+
[[Category:Bolians| Bolian]]

Revision as of 02:48, 14 December 2015

The Bolians were a humanoid species who were native to the Federation planet Bolarus IX.

Physiology

Bolians were distinctively known for a bifurcating (cartilaginous) ridge running vertically along the center of the head and face, and partway down the chest. Skin color ranged from light green-blue to blue-gray to vivid blue and was occasionally accented with dark blue bands on the head.

In the novel Pathways, it is said that Bolian skin is highly prized by Cardassians. Cardassian women in particular enjoy wearing it.

Bolian males were completely bald, were on average as tall as the average Human male, and were not known for their physical prowess. (DS9: "The Magnificent Ferengi") Male Bolians have been known to wear toupées on occasion. (DS9: "The Muse") Bolian females were predominantly bald. However, there were the occasional few who had hair. (TNG: "Allegiance", "Ménage à Troi"; VOY: "Ashes to Ashes")

In addition to the ridge on their heads, they were also noted for having cartilaginous lining on their tongues that allowed them to consume foods not normally palatable by other races, including strong acids. (VOY: "Flashback") One such example of traditional Bolian cuisine was the consumption of meat that had been allowed to partially decay. (DS9: "Crossfire")

The Doctor was particularly interested in the topic of the Bolian digestive system, and put together a piece on the topic in Hints for Healthful Living – a part of the daily USS Voyager morning show, A Briefing with Neelix. (VOY: "Investigations")

Bolian blood

Bolian blood

Bolian hearts were on the right side of their body. This was where petty officer Zim Brott was shot by the serial killer Chu'lak in 2375. (DS9: "Field of Fire")

When removed from the body, Bolian blood was blue in color. (DS9: "The Adversary") The chemistry of their blood was very different from that of other species, especially Vulcans. If a blood transfusion was given from a Vulcan to a Bolian it would result in the death of the Bolian. There were instances, however, when artificial blood was unavailable; when this occurs, existing blood cells had to be genetically altered for inter-species transfusions to be successful. (VOY: "Prototype") Intimate relations between Bolians and Humans typically cause adverse effects to the latter, which might include fatigue, nausea, and joint inflammation. (VOY: "Life Line")

The common denominator between excrement, blood, needing natural protection within the mouth, and sexual relations would be bodily fluid. It is therefore, conceivable that Bolian internal chemistry is corrosive.
Although no substantial reason was given, details of their "inner workings" were hinted at in VOY: "Bride of Chaotica!". When power shortages affected Voyager, Neelix warned Captain Janeway that there were only four functional lavatories for the 150 people on the ship, which was especially a problem as there were Bolians on board.
Certain Earth invertebrates can have naturally blue blood from having copper-based hemocyanin to carry oxygen instead of iron-based hemoglobin.

History and politics

During the 22nd century, the Bolians had limited contact with the Ferengi. (ENT: "Acquisition") By 2366, the Bolian government was maintaining an uneasy truce with the Moropa. (TNG: "Allegiance")

A bottle with Bolian writing from the Star Trek: Enterprise episode "Rajiin" was sold off on the It's A Wrap! sale and auction on eBay. [1]

By the 24th century, the Bolians were associated with the Federation, with several officers serving in Starfleet in the 2360s and an active Federation ambassador by 2369. (TNG: "Conspiracy"; DS9: "The Forsaken") Bolians were among the hundreds of different humanoid species living on Earth by late century. (VOY: "Hope and Fear")

Bolian territory was a hotbed between the Federation and the Dominion during the Dominion War. A front was established by the Sixth Fleet in 2374 to prevent Dominion forces from taking the Bolian border and outlying colonies. Starfleet developed a new strategy during the war on the Bolian front which was known as the Bolian Operation. (DS9: "Behind the Lines", "The Reckoning", "Penumbra")

In a scene cut from TNG: "The Chase", it was implied that the Bolians were not members of the Federation as of 2369. If they indeed joined after this date, it would explain the situation with Moropa, as it seems unlikely that one member world would exist in a state of altered political relations; being Federation members would substantially alter militaristic stance.
Further ambiguity in terms of Bolarus's status in the Federation after 2377 is shown in a scene from "Q2". In the episode a Bolian hologram is part of a mining dispute that "could lead to war" and the presence of Starfleet officers is questioned by other parties. However, as membership likely does not encompass whole species, membership remains a possibility.

Society and culture

Bolians courting

Two Bolians courting

A Bolian medical philosophy on euthanasia was developed during their Middle Ages known as the "double effect" principle. This form of assisted suicide states that "an action that has the principal effect of relieving suffering may be ethically justified even though the same action has the secondary effect of possibly causing death." (VOY: "Death Wish")

Bolian courtship initiation consisted of a male and female Bolian pressing foreheads with eyes closed, while both participants touched the neck of their partner with both hands, placing the fingers where one would check the pulse of a species with a circulatory system similar to that of humans. (VOY: "Someone to Watch Over Me") Bolian marriages sometimes involved more than two members. Any additional spouse was referred to as a "co-husband" or "co-wife", respectively. (DS9: "Field of Fire") During a pregnancy, they believed that if one gives birth near a warp core, the experience improved the baby's disposition. (VOY: "Lineage")

Bolian individuals tended to be highly outspoken, even when it was not requested. (TNG: "Ensign Ro", et. al.) Due to the "good nature" personality types often perceived in Bolians, they were often accustomed to working in various service professions. Bolian barbers and waiters were employed aboard the USS Enterprise-D during its mission. (TNG: "Data's Day", et al.) Captain Janeway once encountered the personality of an assimilated Bolian manicurist during a discussion with Seven of Nine. (VOY: "Infinite Regress") Bolian shop owners and restaurateurs maintained a presence on the Promenade of Deep Space 9. (DS9: "Shadowplay", "Resurrection", "Crossfire")

A form of greeting involved extending the hand as if for a Human handshake, but with the palm down and the fingers curved part way. (TNG: "Conspiracy")

Bolian-written histories of 21st century Earth took special notice of the allegedly poor state of Human plumbing during that time period. (VOY: "11:59")

Language

File:Bolian script.gif

Bolian language script

The Human name Frederick bore a close resemblance to an impolite Bolian term. (VOY: "Dreadnought")

Cuisine

Bolian food, to non-Bolians, sounded very unappetizing (although was tasty), as in some dishes, preparation involved the use of aged meat. (DS9: "Crossfire")

List of foods and beverages

People

  • List of Bolians

Economy and trade

File:SymbolForTheBankOfBolias.jpg

Symbol for the Bank of Bolias

The Bank of Bolias was the primary financial institution of the Bolians and many off-worlders. Fluctuations in Bolian currency played an important role in Alpha Quadrant trade.

In 2371, Quark, the Ferengi trade intermediary between the Karemma and the Federation, discussed Bolian currency fluctuations with Hanok. (DS9: "Starship Down")

The Bolians were among many Federation races that took advantage of the starbase Deep Space 9 and the Bajoran wormhole. Bolian vessels frequently conducted trade through the station during the 2370s, often falling victim to nearby Maquis raids. (DS9: "Tribunal") In 2371, a Maquis ship disabled two Bolian freighters near the Demilitarized Zone and stole its shipment of photon launchers. (DS9: "The Maquis, Part I") The Maquis would again attack two Bolian freighters in 2373, stealing several thousand tons of rhodium nitrite and selenium. (DS9: "For the Uniform")

In 2373, the Bolian government authorized the Ferengi Gaming Commission to manage their gambling emporiums. (DS9: "Ferengi Love Songs")

Bolian crystalsteel was a type of Bolian commodity. (DS9: "The Jem'Hadar")

Technology

Appendices

Appearances

Background information

Bolians are named after Cliff Bole, who directed the first Star Trek: The Next Generation episode to feature the species, "Conspiracy". (Star Trek Encyclopedia) Bolians were first identified by name in "Allegiance". The Cliffs of Bole, mentioned in "Invasive Procedures" are a further play on his name.

External link

This is a featured article. At the time it was featured (April 2005), it was considered one of the best examples of the Memory Alpha community's work. This article was featured more than five years ago though, and its status should be reviewed. You can use the links below to see how the article has changed since it was last featured.
Featured revision (80764)Diff to currentBlurb