The Antarean body emanates a form of energy known as life force, which can be transferred to other beings voluntarily or involuntarily; and they need to build large stocks of it in order to emerge from cocoons or to survive trips through space. It is implied that members of this species are biologically immortal, although they can still die if their life force is drained. They are also still susceptible to at least some non-lethal diseases, for instance, displaying signs of illness after consuming Earth food.