A species from Benzar who must use a breathing apparatus in standard atmospheres.
Benzites are a humanoid species from the planet Benzar, and they cannot breathe the oxygen-rich air common to most Federation worlds. Away from home they usually wear a breathing apparatus that supplies the gases they need, and their grey-blue skin and distinctive features make them easy to spot.
Benzite society values intellect, careful planning and efficiency, and its members are often keen to excel in their chosen field. They are known for sharp minds and a certain impatience with those who work more slowly or less carefully than they do.
Benzar was admitted to the Federation, and Benzites have served in Starfleet since. The best remembered individual is Mordock, a Benzite cadet seen in the Next Generation episode Coming of Age, who makes a notable showing in the Academy entrance process. Benzites in Starfleet show how varied the Federation's membership has become.