Somehow it took me way too long to realize Aether wildlife all developed from lifeforms imported from other planets (or possibly given as “planet-warming” gifts by allies of the Luminoth)

Remember, Aether has no Sun, its day/night cycle is artificial and done by channeling the strange energy unique to the planet. It was probably completely sterile before the Luminoth came.

In a way, the Ing might argue they are the first true natives of the planet.