Prescribed lab 5: Create a sealed mesocosm

Ecosystems have the potential to be sustainable over long periods of time

Mesocosms emulate ecosystems and how they interact with their biotic and abiotic components.

-The main components include: Energy, nutrient availability, and recycling waste.

Mesocosms are enclosed “ecosystems” that allows a small part of a natural environment to be observed under controlled conditions:

A terrarium is a small transparent container, whether it be glass or plastic, in which selected plants or even animals in some cases are kept and observed

1. Building a foundation

• layer for drainage, Add layer of pebbles, gravel or sand etc.

• second thin layer of activated charcoal to prevent mold and help to aerate the soil

• thin cover of sphagnum moss (or organic coffee filter)

• final layer of pre-moistened growing medium

2. Selecting the right plants

• choose plants that are slow growing and thrive in humidity like ferns, club moss, etc.

• Inspect the plant first to make sure its healthy

3. Maintaining appropriate conditions

• Place in a location with a continuous source of light

• Make sure there are no experience temperature conditions

• Do not over water, ensure that the humidity etc is adjusted before continuing to water

• As level of soil nutrients decrease, plant growth should slow down