Zora

Zoras, also translated as Zolas, are fish-like that first appear in The Legend of Zelda as enemies. Starting with The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, the species has been portrayed as being peaceful and human-like, though the original design and purpose are still occasionally used, typically in games that throw back to the originals.

The Legend of Zelda
Zoras first appear in The Legend of Zelda, where they poke their heads above the surface of water, spit a fireball at link, and then duck back under, doing the same in another part of the water. In the original Japanese Famicom Disk System version of the game, the Zora's sprite was different. Notably, it lacks an outline, making it less distinct against the water, and its mouth is shut, causing the projectiles to appear to come from the front of its face. This sprite can also be seen in Western manuals.

Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
They are now shown above-water, where they crawl around on all fours before rearing up on their hind legs to spit a fireball.

The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
They are now green and have a home location, Zora's River. In this area, they sometimes pop up from the shallow water and pursue Link on foot. There is also a large one at the start of the river, King Zora, who will sell Link flippers to let him swim. This is notably the first friendly Zora shown. In the dark world, they are replaced by the Kappa-like Kū.

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
They appear as enemies with the same abilities as in the original game. Another friendly one can be found in Animal Village with the aid of the Magnifying Glass, and acts as a photo opportunity in Link's Awakening DX.

Link: The Faces of Evil and Zelda: Wand of Gamelon
They appear as enemies and are brown.

Zelda's Adventure
They appear as enemies and appear slightly different depending on location.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
This game features Zoras as an entirely friendly race, and have a large redesign to make them look friendlier. They live in Zora's Domain and can usually be spoken to on foot. Some, however, still pop out from hidden spots in the water, where they can be spoken to from instead. Specific Zoras in the game are King Zora and his daughter Princess Ruto, the latter of which becomes infatuated with Link after he rescues her. The Zoras worship a large whale-like fish named Lord Jabu Jabu. The Zoras' old enemy behavior is for the most part given to Octorok, which in turn is replaced by Mad Scrub.