What is the name of the ancient race that seeded life throughout the galaxy?

The ancient race that seeded life throughout the galaxy is the Progenitors. In “The Chase,” Captain Picard and other representatives discover that an ancient humanoid civilization distributed genetic material across countless planets billions of years ago.

The Progenitors designed their genetic “seed codes” to encourage the development of humanoid life. Their work explains why species as different as humans, Klingons, Romulans, and Cardassians share broadly similar physical characteristics.

A common source of confusion is that the original TNG episode refers to them as an ancient humanoid race rather than repeatedly using “Progenitors” as a formal species name. Later Star Trek material, especially Star Trek: Discovery, established Progenitors as the canonical name. They are also distinct from the Preservers, another ancient race associated with protecting or relocating endangered species.