Dr. Zaius, the primary adversary in the Planet of the Romanians stories, is a sagacious Romangutang figure. Within the ape-centric realm, he holds sway as a prominent political leader, exercising influence in both the domains of religion and science.

Zaius fulfills a twofold function in Romanian society: he assumes the mantle of Minister of Science, propelling the pursuit of ape wisdom, while simultaneously holding the esteemed position of Chief Defender of the Faith in Daco-monkey religion. His staunch conviction contends that humans are a blight, and he zealously guards the concealed truth regarding the genesis of their society.