Kryptonian - Physiology and Powers

Physiology and Powers

See also: Powers and abilities of Superman

Kryptonians are indistinguishable from humans; this allows Kal-El to lead a double life as Clark Kent. Also in Silver Age and Modern continuity Kryptonians have more than one ethnic group, such as a dark-skinned minority from Krypton's Vathlo Island that resembles Earth humans of Sub-Saharan African descent, and a minority group from the continent of Twenx resembling Earth Asian and Latino peoples. In the first stories about Superman's origins, all Kryptonians possess super strength, speed, stamina and senses, vortex breath, freeze breath, telescopic vision, microscopic vision, x-ray vision, heat vision, healing factor, flight, and invulnerability. In later depictions, their abilities are attributed to the differences between Earth's gravity and that of Krypton, and the different radiation of the stars they orbit. When in the vicinity of yellow, blue or white stars, Kryptonians utilize solar energy on the cellular and molecular levels to achieve abilities unattainable by ordinary human beings. Kryptonians are also given different abilities from the light of dwarf stars, pulsars, and quasars. Some stories also show that Kryptonians have bioelectric fields that surround their bodies and protect them from harm. This may or may not be the method by which Kryptonians fly. On occasion certain individuals (including Conner Kent, Chris Kent, and some Phantom Zone criminals) have been depicted with "tactile telekinesis". The abilities of Kryptonians evolve and grow more powerful as Kryptonians age and develop; the older and more experienced the Kryptonian, the more powerful he or she is.

Mating between Kryptonians and other species is difficult, as Kryptonian DNA is complex enough to make them nearly unable to conceive with most of the other species in the universe including humans. Regardless, it is not impossible for them to mate with other species. The only notable exception is represented by the original native Daxamite population (the race that bore that name before intermingling with the Kryptonian explorers who later adapted the name for themselves). Kryptonian explorers were able to interbreed with the race, resulting in a new Kryptonian hybrid race that could interbreed with a larger number of humanoid races including Earth humans. It is still unknown if other races may exhibit the same degree of compatibility of the Native Daxamites

Super powered Kryptonians are vulnerable to Kryptonite, radioactive remnants of Krypton, magic, and black holes.

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