This silkworm enclosure is designed to be 3D-printed by astronauts on Mars in 2050. Silkworms would provide an excellent food source for astronauts because they contain high amounts of protein and essential amino acids. Additionally, silkworms breed quickly, produce little waste, and can rely solely on mulberry leaves (which could be grown in a future Mars greenhouse). Certain subspecies can also consume other crops planned to be grown on Mars, such as lettuce. Within the enclosure, the silkworms would reside on top of the mesh. Any excrement will fall through the mesh, keeping the enclosure sanitary. At the proper age, silkworms would be removed through the top lid for human consumption. The silkworms that remain will form cocoons in the back compartments and soon emerge to breed. The short-lived moths will lay eggs on the mesh, where the next generation will hatch. In this way, silkworms would provide a continuous source of nutrition for future Mars colonists.

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