The Quath’Mar are groups of tribal space nomads comprised of species from the Alpha Quadrant and some from the Beta Quadrant. They are most often found at the edge of Federation territory. The exact origin of the Quath’Mar is hotly debated. The Vulcan Science Institute's first recorded encounter with the Quath’Mar was in the late 21st century. According to their account, they found them to be diverse explorers, open to trading resources and knowledge with other spacefaring peoples.

According to Quath’Mar folklore, many centuries ago, an ancient species fled their homeworld before a supernova. They began voyaging among the stars, unable to have offspring, so they started bringing other species into their convoy. The Quath’Mar believe the spirits of the ancient species were reborn in the offspring of those born on their vessels. Federation medical observers have noted several genetic anomalies in individuals who’ve been voyaging with the Quath’Mar for generations. Whether this is some sort of natural evolution or genetic manipulation is unknown.

Shortly after the founding of the United Federation of Planets, treaties were established between the Quath’Mar Council and the Federation. These treaties established trade routes, salvage, and mining rights, as well as a mutual aid pact. Apart from the Federation, their strongest trade ally is the Ferengi. The Quath’Mar’s relationship with other galactic powers has been rocky at best. Neither the Romulans nor the Cardassians have ever allowed them in their territory. Some of the Klingon houses had trade agreements with some of the Quath’Mar clans, but there has never been an official treaty with the Empire. Some Quath’Mar clans have traded with the Breen but have never shared any intel about the Breen or their deals.

Their vessels and technology are as diverse as the species that voyage among them. Their medical and weapon tech is on par with the Federation. Their communication technology is both advanced and a closely guarded secret. They have methods of communication that few outsiders have ever been able to detect.

The Quath’Mar are a tribal people divided into clans, each with customs and procedures unique to the individuals within the clan. However, all the clans answer to the Council of Elders led by the Til’Gisha clan, believed to be the first and oldest clan. Each clan has a Shaman who holds an equal position of authority with the Chieftain. Within the clan, all the larger vessels have captains who form a council with the Chieftain's leadership.