- #31
Noisy Rhysling
- 999
- 345
So far I'm in favor of an alien flying pet with a propellor on its butt.
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the selection of pets for a long-haul space freighter shared by multiple people. Participants explore various types of pets, their potential behaviors, and the implications of having them in a confined space environment. The conversation touches on theoretical considerations of gravity, animal behavior, and the challenges of maintaining pets in space.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest common pets like cats and raccoons due to their intelligence and dexterity.
- Questions arise about the nature of gravity in space, with some noting that artificial gravity may be present on the freighter.
- Concerns are raised about the mischievous behavior of ferrets, which may lead to them being problematic aboard the ship.
- Modified alligators and snakes are proposed as potential pets, with considerations about their carnivorous tendencies and the need for special care.
- Participants express curiosity about the lack of pets in science fiction and the resource implications of keeping them in space.
- Discussion includes the idea of exotic animal poop potentially having market value on different planets.
- Some participants mention the possibility of training pets to use toilets, while others note the challenges of doing so.
- There are humorous exchanges about the types of pets that could be chosen and their potential interactions with the environment and crew.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the best type of pet for space travel, with multiple competing views on the suitability and implications of various animals. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the practicality of different pets in a space environment.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the uncertainty about the effects of artificial gravity on animal behavior and the undefined parameters for pet care in a confined space. The discussion also reflects varying assumptions about the nature of pets and their training capabilities.
Who May Find This Useful
Readers interested in speculative fiction, space travel, animal behavior, and the implications of keeping pets in confined environments may find this discussion engaging.
- #32
DaveC426913
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Alas, wheels and propellors are not something in nature's toolbox.Noisy Rhysling said:
Nature can't do axles.- #33
BillTre
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Well, bacterial flagella can rotate.
Of course they are very small molecular not cellular structures and not wheels, but are kind of like a propeller.
Of course they are very small molecular not cellular structures and not wheels, but are kind of like a propeller.
- #34
Noisy Rhysling
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Not on this planet, anyway.DaveC426913 said:Alas, wheels and propellors are not something in nature's toolbox.
- #35
DaveC426913
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Yeah, that's one of the few exceptions. Surface area to volume is low enough that the flagella can get nutrients right through the walls.BillTre said:
Another exception would be two symbiotic creatures - one forming the axle.
- #36
Noisy Rhysling
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Perhaps a breeding pair using flight to hunt?DaveC426913 said:
- #37
BillTre
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Noisy Rhysling said:
Perhaps a new meaning of screw.
- #38
Noisy Rhysling
- 999
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I was thinking more of a hunting pair, but I'm going to steam that line. THX!BillTre said:
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