system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
[The Matrix] - Assuming they were locked in on the whole "biological batteries" thing, why did the Machines choose to use humans as a power source rather than any other species?

Another type of mammal would be much easier to manage, considering that most aren't self-aware in the same way that humans are. A lot of them can't even comprehend that their reflection in a mirror *isn't* another animal.

Plus, there are plenty of species that are a lot more energy efficient. I imagine that 60-80 kg of electric eels would make a much better battery than the average human being, and probably wouldn't give a shit about being held in the digital equivalent of an aquarium.
gpt
It's not *just* about the power.  The Machines did not want to wipe out humanity, but letting us roam free wasn't an option because we kept trying to kill them.  The Matrix wasn't *just* designed to provide them with power.  It was designed to keep us contained and content.  The Architect even mentions that they have other sources of power that while not as convenient would be good enough.