Quark, son of Keldar and Ishka, is a fictional character in the television series Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, played by Armin Shimerman. A member of the ultra-capitalist Ferengi, Quark owned a bar on the promenade of Deep Space Nine.

The writing of the character softened considerably during the course of the series. Near the beginning, he was portrayed as strict follower of Ferengi morals, and allowed nothing to stand in the way of profit. He was therefore occasionally mixed up in highly illegal activities. However, Quark gradually became a more appealing character, who, although never losing his greed, could be counted on to do what was right.

Quark originally came to the station while it was named Terok Nor during the Cardassian occupation of Bajor. Originally, Quark admired the Cardassian race for their version of morality. When the station changed hands at the end of the occupation, Quark decided to leave the station. Commander Sisko convinced Quark to stay. When the Bajoran wormhole was discovered, Quark helped broker deals between several Gamma Quadrant races and the Ferengi. The Alpha Quadrant's first knowledge of the Dominion came through business dealings that Quark and the Ferengi had in the Gamma Quadrant.

Throughout the series, Quark was often locked in a battle of wits between himself and station security chief Odo. Odo would regularly foil Quark's financial schemes. The two men eventually developed a grudging respect for each other. When Odo finally left the station to rejoin the Great Link at the end of the series, Quark came to say goodbye, and made a toast to Odo.

Quark's brother Rom succeeded Zek as Grand Nagus, and his nephew Nog was the first Ferengi in Starfleet.

External link

• StarTrek.com: Quark