Pfifltriggi

The  Pfifltriggi  (singular Pfifltrigg ) are an alien species native to the planet Malacandra who have tapir-like heads (with a bulge at the back implying a large brain) with long snouts and small frog-like bodies with long limbs and pale skin; they lean their elbows on the ground when at rest, and sometimes when working with their hands. Their movements are quick and insectlike. They are the builders and technicians of Malacandra. They build houses and gadgets thought up by the séroni. They are miners who especially like to dig up "sun's blood" (gold) and other useful and beautiful minerals. Their sense of humor is "sharp and excelled in abuse" (Chap. 18).