Contains red shrimp, algae and microbes for animals and plants.
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Just provide sufficient light (6 to 12 hours a day)
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Has an average life expectancy of two years
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Needs to be kept at 60-85°F.
Editorial Reviews:
Product Description EcoSphere is a calming balance of earth, water, air and life--all parts of a working self-sufficient ecosystem that's much more than science; it's an original work of art. The delicate coexistence of animal and plant life (red shrimp, algae and microbes) thrives in the handblown glass sphere of seawater. It's easy to care for--just provide sufficient light and enjoy the aesthetic blend of science and art, beauty and balance. This technology was developed by NASA scientists as part of a growing initiative to study our planet's biosphere. Makes a unique gift for those who contemplate the mystery of life on our planet and enjoy the serenity of nature! The inside story EcoSphere is a delicate balance of earth, water, air and life--all parts of a working ecosystem. Light--the foundation of life. Fluorescent light or indirect sunlight provides everything your ecosystem needs; there's no feeding or cleaning required. Seawater --provides the backdrop for this educational, self-contained marine environment. Red shrimp --chosen for their nonaggressive tendencies towards one another, these tiny crustaceans live in perfect harmony with their mini environment. Algae --healthy growth sustains and nourishes shrimp by supplying food and oxygen. Microbes --to feed the algae. Other materials --Gorgonia sprig, gravel, shells and glass provide ample hiding places and smooth surfaces for microbes to attach themselves to and thrive. Glimpse into the future This technology was developed by scientists at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory as part of a growing initiative to study our planet's biosphere. NASA was researching self-contained communities for space explorers to live in during long-term flights. Out of this research came EcoSphere--a world in perfect balance. Life expectancy EcoSphere has an average life expectancy of two years; however, in the right conditions some have lived for up to 10 years. For best results: Do not shake! Supply 6-12 hours of light a day Avoid direc
Customer Reviews: DONT BUYApril 4, 2010 Chris Lecompte(Tasmania) 0 out of 11 found this review helpful
I bought it. It was a ripoff. It is about $3 worth of supplies. These shrimp are bred prolifically so it is a tremendous profit. It is animal cruelty. They barely grow and struggle to survive with the lack of food.
Fun gadget that is not a gadgetJanuary 19, 2010 Steven T. Weiser(Emporia, KS) 6 out of 6 found this review helpful
I have always wanted one of these and my wife got me one for Christmas. There was a slight problem with shipping and there was no life in the sphere. Within a week I had a replacement and the shrinp are doing well. They seem to hang out together and I get a kick out of watching them. This sphere is all they know so it cannot be cruel, no more cruel than a fish tank. For the person that needs nothing, this is a great idea.
DON'T Buy!January 8, 2010 Chris Lecompte(Tasmania) 2 out of 14 found this review helpful
In brief, don't buy, Brookstone doesn't treat their costumers properly from my expirience, overpriced(WAY!), they delete posts they want to delete.... O, animal cruelty? Shrimp(about 8) live in a softball size globe for a couple years nearly starving because not enough algae is produced, and if it is they will die because the ecosystem is so tiny. NEVER BUY!
