 The galaxy is composed of eight space @-@ faring races , five of which can be hired as part of the player 's crew . Humans only exist on Arth and are not found among the stars . Other species include <unk> , large insects who demand bribes from ships which violate their space ; <unk> , androids left over from the days of the Old Empire ; <unk> , a pacifistic race of sentient plants ; <unk> , reptile creatures who are primarily interested in money ; <unk> , gelatinous blobs who are known for their cowardice ; <unk> , octopus @-@ like religious zealots who regard all " air @-@ breathers " as infidels ; and <unk> , a destructive fleet of ships with a hive mind . Humor also plays a role within Starflight . 
