Aquatic Civilization(s)

So here's my problem. I want to create an aquatic civilization for a Star Frontiers setting that has some advanced tech but from a realistic standpoint, an aquatic civilization can never exist beyond stone age tech due to the inability to produce fire, thereby allowing for the smelting and shaping of metal. I plan to leave this civilization at a point short of actual space capabilities, but with arts, language, music, etc that are all on a similar level as any of the core races.<br /><br />There are a couple ways around this:<br /><br />1) Allow the budding civilization to be helped by an advanced civilization to get beyond that barrier and then they can thrive on thier own.<br /><br />2) Make the aquatic civilzation amphibious so that they can develop fire on their own.<br /><br />For the purpose of solving my problem, I don't like #1 above and am somewhat iffy on #2, but it could be done that way.<br /><br />There is a third way however, but it is considered essentially, science fiction if not outright science fantasy. That would be; advanced tech through bioengineering/biotech. Admittedly, this is the route I'd REALLY like to go. I'd like them to be able to grow their tools, buildings, weapons, armor, vehicles - everything. In this way, they would be far more advanced than the core races eventhough they have no space flight capabilities.<br /><br />My problem then is this: Will such a thing strain the sensabilities of GMs and players involved in the Star Frontiers universe? It seems to me that it shouldn't be a problem because we already have science fiction/fantasy elements in the game - what would it hurt to have another? Still, I thought it would be best if I asked the community before I invest a lot of time in this even though I REALLY like the idea.<br /><br />Any input would be appriciated!<br /><br /><br />Thanx!<br /><br />~RT