[Jmenschenfresser]

My trick for small galaxies and lots of *****in' AIs is to research mines right out of the gate. Takes a few turns, but once you have them, even the TDM races just run into them a few times and then leave you alone for a while.

Usually after they lose several ships to your mines, they offer a treaty. No harm done.

Gives you time to develop a fleet and do some other research, and is a perfect defense for new colonies.