Esalmalin

The Esalmalins are an alien race from the Stardoc Universe.

Biology
Slender, heavily clawed beings covered in hundreds of thin, sharp exoskeletal spines that protrude on their bodies save for their insides. Their spines can flatten or elongate.

Culture
They appear to be members of the Allied League of Worlds, with some members serving in the fleet. They practice a martial form using a bladeless weapon known as a  goreu staff.

Appearances

 * Endurance (Stardoc #3) by S.L. Viehl