These are small aquatic animals (snails, shrimp). They eat the plants or algae, breathe the oxygen produced by the plants, and release carbon dioxide.
"I check on my jar every morning," says David, a moderator of the r/ecosphere community, which boasts over 50,000 members. "It’s meditation. You see a snail laying eggs, or a strand of algae splitting, and you realize that all of this is happening without you. You set it in motion, but it runs itself. It’s the closest most of us will get to watching a planet form."
The biosphere must have net oxygen production during daylight to support respiration at night. This requires a proper balance between producers and consumers. Bottle Biosphere Guide
Larger containers (1 gallon or more) are easier to balance and plant, though small mason jars also work. Substrate Layers (The Foundation)
Pebbles or gravel. This acts as a reservoir so the soil doesn't get waterlogged. Filtration (Middle): These are small aquatic animals (snails, shrimp)
Pour a 1-to-2-inch layer of pebbles or leca into the bottom of the jar. Directly on top of the stones, add a
Moisture evaporates from the soil and transpires from plant leaves. This water vapor rises, condenses on the cool glass walls, and trickles back down into the soil like rain. "It’s meditation
Remove from nursery pots, gently shake off existing soil, and inspect for pests. Trim any dead or yellowing leaves.
There are three main types: simple plant-based, aquatic, or a combined terrestrial-aquatic system.