Animals

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.

Important Animals for Martian Colonization

Certain types of animal may be of great importance for settlements.

Insects

Most insects are not vital for a colony, but some may be important.

Polination

Polinators, such as moths, butterflies, and bees, are a critical part of agriculture. Small greenhouses may be able to accomodate polination needs by direct human action. More efficient means, such as natural polination, are needed for large greenhouses. Bees also produce honey and wax as a by-product.

Food

Other insects, such as mealworms, silkworms, 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 protein 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.