Imagine, having an entire world on your desk. A whole ecosystem that you can observe changing and developing. No, we're not talking about the colony of ants gathering around that squashed Mars Bar. We're talking about the amazing Biosphere Egg, the self-sustaining mini ecosystem that survives on light alone.
Biosphere Eggs are truly remarkable and fascinating spectacles. Scientists at NASA developed biospheres with a perfectly ecologically balanced mix of plant life, algae and animals. These amazing mini-worlds can even survive in space – biospheres have been on both the NASA Space Shuttle and the Russian MIR Space Station, allowing astronauts to take a little bit of nature into space with them
The best thing about a biosphere is that you never need to change the water or even feed the creatures. (Which is a good job in a spaceship.) All it needs to survive is a daily input of light, preferably around six hours Light triggers photosynthesis in the algae, which produces the oxygen the freshwater shrimp within the biosphere need to survive. The shrimp eat the micro algae for nutrients, and the micro bacteria present eat the waste. Thus nature works together to make this perfect little universe work.
Biosphere Eggs are beautiful and fascinating to look at, and ideal for the lazy amongst you. If you have a habit of letting your plants die, what could be better than this maintenance-free miracle? With an average life span of three to five years, a Biosphere is a much better investment than a Yucca. Some have even lasted as long as ten years.
And if you're worried animals enclosed in a glass egg is cruel, don't be. Biospheres are specifically designed to make sure the shrimp are happy and healthy. In fact, in this predator-free mini world, they live longer than they would in their natural habitat.
Biospheres make a fascinating conversation piece for the home or the office, and are perfect for unusual gifts. Plus the calming effect of the water means it's ideal for your desk. Next time the boss makes you do overtime, just stare at your Biosphere and think calming thoughts…
Important: Biospheres need at least six hours of artificial light (not halogen) a day. Do NOT place your Biosphere in direct sunlight. Your shrimps should be bright red in colour. If they become pale, this is a sign the Biosphere needs more light.
Height 13cm, diameter 10cm.
Important: Biospheres need at least six hours of artificial light (not halogen) a day. Do NOT place your Biosphere in direct sunlight. Your shrimps should be bright red in colour. If they become pale, this is a sign the Biosphere needs more light.
As Biospheres rely on light it is vital they spend as little time in transit (and in packaging) as possible. Therefore to make sure you don't end up unwrapping an egg full of dead shrimp, the delivery has to be prompt.
What an easter present