Abhumans are stable subspecies of humanity in Warhammer 40k, descended from settlers who adapted to extreme worlds during the Age of Strife. They’re not mutants in the eyes of the Administratum, but that doesn’t stop the Imperium from treating them like second-class citizens.
What makes an abhuman
Abhumans are human populations that evolved in isolation on hostile worlds, developing traits that set them apart from baseline humans. The key distinction is stability: they breed true, and they’re no more prone to random mutation than anyone else. That’s why the Imperium classifies them separately from mutants, who are seen as corrupted and impure.
The Administratum recognises 73 stable abhuman strains, though most are gone. 46 are listed as extinct, another 12 are probably dead or absorbed into the general population, and the status of the last 15 is argued about endlessly by the Tithes Chamber Notaries, sub. Planetary Census (Abhumans), the body that handles abhuman affairs.
Why they matter
Abhumans have fought and died for the Imperium since the Great Crusade, and they still serve today in the Astra Militarum through the Militarum Auxilla, often as their own regiments, platoons, or squads. Ogryns and Ratlings are the most common examples, and they fill specialist roles that baseline humans can’t do as well.
But acceptance is another matter. The Ministorum preaches that the human form is sacred and any deviation is blasphemy, so abhumans face suspicion and persecution across Imperial society. They’re outsiders even when they’re fighting for the same Emperor.
Notable strains
Ogryns are massive, strong, and loyal, often used as shock troops. Ratlings are small, quick, and excellent snipers. Navigators are a special case, a mutant strain essential for warp travel, but they’re not usually classed as abhumans in the same way.
Other strains include Beastmen, Felinids, Squats, Longshanks, Nightsiders, Pelagers, and many more. Some are extinct, like the Katara and Thugrock Goliaths, and others are so obscure that records are thin.
| Strain | Notable traits |
|---|---|
| Ogryn | Huge, strong, loyal, often shock troops |
| Ratling | Small, agile, expert snipers |
| Beastmen | Goat-like features, often used as expendable troops |
| Squats | Short, hardy, technologically skilled |
| Navigators | Third eye, warp navigation, not always classed as abhuman |
How they fit into the lore
Abhumans arose during the Dark Age of Technology and the Age of Strife, when human worlds were cut off and left to adapt on their own. When the Great Crusade brought them back into the fold, some worlds had both abhuman and baseline populations, while others were entirely abhuman.
Today, abhumans are a reminder that the Imperium’s hatred of mutation is often hypocritical. They’re tolerated because they’re useful, but they’re never fully trusted. That tension makes them a rich part of the setting, showing how humanity’s survival often depends on those it despises.
Key facts
- Abhumans are stable human subspecies adapted to extreme environments.
- The Imperium recognises 73 strains, but most are extinct or missing.
- They breed true and aren’t more mutation-prone than baseline humans.
- They serve in the Astra Militarum but face widespread persecution.
- The Ministorum’s teachings make acceptance difficult.
- Ogryns and Ratlings are the most common abhuman troops.
FAQ
Are abhumans the same as mutants?
No. Abhumans are stable subspecies that breed true and aren’t more prone to mutation than baseline humans. Mutants are seen as corrupted and unpredictable, and the Imperium treats them very differently.
How many abhuman strains are there?
The Imperium recognises 73 stable strains, but most are extinct or unaccounted for. Only 15 have a status that’s actively debated by the Administratum.
Can abhumans serve in the Imperial Guard?
Yes. They serve in the Astra Militarum through the Militarum Auxilla, often as dedicated regiments or specialist squads. Ogryns and Ratlings are the most common.