Mackensee - Environment: By virtually any measure, Mackensee's natural environment represents a world that could easily become a paradise for any Humans fortunate enough to enjoy it. The soil, air, and water are all free from toxic contaminants. The oceans have a salinity level very close to that of ancient Terra's.The world's temperate zones are broad and filled with ample water. Its life forms are largely compatible with Human biochemistry, such that the flora and fauna are almost all non-toxic and even well-suited to the Human palate. Mackensee's seasons are relatively mild and her ecosystems are all quite stable. In short, any Humans fortunate enough to live upon the planet would have very little reason to ever wish to leave it.Mackensee's oceans are vast, covering more than half of the world's surface. While there are two large continents, a substantial portion of the world's surface area is made up of island chains. Most of these islands are spread within the planet's temperate and tropical zones, and represent more than forty percent of the planet's arable land.These regions enjoy the constant, gentle breezes from her oceans as well as lengthy growing seasons. The second and third Mackensee colonisation attempts targeted island chains within this zone.Most of the world's large plants, which are analogous to the forests of ancient Terra, are located upon the continents. The first and third colonial efforts targeted continental regions, with the intent of harvesting these plants for the early stage construction of their enclaves.According to initial reports, the woods were hardy and resistant to the planet's weather even after harvesting. They also appeared to be well-suited for use with STC techniques, according to preliminary reports generated as part of repeated exploratory efforts.There are two endemic threats on Mackensee, both of which present challenges to Humanity. Neither of these are insurmountable, but both must be considered. The first is the world's microbiology.The world's moist air -- particularly near its oceans -- contains a broad range of microbes. While the vast majority are harmless to Humans, a small subset can become extremely effective parasites.Of these, an even smaller portion is capable of inducing severe illness, which can lead to death if left untreated. Standard medicae protocols can easily overcome this threat, but such equipment is not always available to an isolated colony.The second major threat includes a number of Mackensee's top tier predators. Just as Humans are capable of feeding upon the native flora and fauna, these aggressive xenoforms are equally capable of surviving a meal of Human flesh.The threats vary substantially across the world's surface, as different organisms seem to have adapted to the role within its varied ecosystems.However, most are fast moving, strong, extremely aggressive, and quite hardy. Many are also arboreal creatures, which are prone to launching swift attacks against prey on the ground. None of the known species are resistant to weapons fire, but all can represent a significant threat to an unprotected and unprepared Human.Of course, the gravest of current threats is not from the world, but instead the one imposed by the Tyranid swarm. As these xenos continue to intrude upon the system, they have spread their foul Mycetic Spores upon its surface.Though the invasion appears to have stalled at a relatively early stage, their mark is present in many of the biomes across Mackensee's surface and deep below it as well. Dozens of capillary towers have already emerged.Seismological surveys can quickly reveal subterranean activity, the sky is often filled with Gargoyles, and there are portions of the planet where all of the native life has been eradicated.