Difference between revisions of "Animals"
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==Important Animals for Martian Colonization== | ==Important Animals for Martian Colonization== | ||
Certain types of animal may be of great importance for [[settlement|settlements]]. | Certain types of animal may be of great importance for [[settlement|settlements]]. | ||
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| + | Use of animals as food sources is open to ethical debate. The [[Food|Feed conversion]] ratio is a measure of efficiency in conversion from vegetable sources to edible meat. | ||
===Insects=== | ===Insects=== | ||
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===Fish=== | ===Fish=== | ||
| − | Species of [[fish]] such as [[tilapia]] and [[catfish]] can be fed on [[waste biomass recycling|waste biomass]], and may provide a source of [[ | + | Species of [[fish]] such as [[tilapia]] and [[catfish]] can be fed on [[waste biomass recycling|waste biomass]], and may provide a source of [[food]] and amusement. |
===Mammals=== | ===Mammals=== | ||
Revision as of 10:43, 10 May 2019
Animals are multicellular eukaryotes with differentiated tissues. They rely on plants, microbes, or other animals for food. Animals are usually self-mobile in at least one phase of their life cycle.
Contents
Important Animals for Martian Colonization
Certain types of animal may be of great importance for settlements.
Use of animals as food sources is open to ethical debate. The Feed conversion ratio is a measure of efficiency in conversion from vegetable sources to edible meat.
Insects
Most insects are not vital for a colony, but some may be important.
Pollination
Pollinators, such as moths, butterflies, and bees, are a critical part of agriculture. Small greenhouses may be able to accommodate pollination needs by direct human action. More efficient means, such as natural pollination, are needed for large greenhouses. Bees also produce honey and wax as a by-product.
Food
Other insects, such as mealworms, silkworms[1], or crickets may be raised for food.
Natural Fiber
Silkworms generate silk, but require a diet of fresh mulberry leaves.
Arachnids
Spiders are a source of natural fiber - spider silk.
Fish
Species of fish such as tilapia and catfish can be fed on waste biomass, and may provide a source of food and amusement.
Mammals
Humans are the most important mammal to Martian colonization. Other small mammals, such as rodents, cats, and dogs may be brought to Mars as pets.
Mice and Rats can serve a triple role - food, research subjects, and pets. Rabbits and other mammals can serve as sources of meat.
Birds
Birds can serve as pets, elements of a biosphere in a settlement and as food. Eggs can serve as food as well.
