What:

The Mini Ecosystem Lamp is a small, USB-powered lamp that houses a self-sustaining closed ecosystem. Designed as a balance between functionality, education, and relaxation, it provides an easy way to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature indoors without high maintenance.

Why:

The calming colors and movement of plants and creatures in natural ecosystems offer a unique way to bring peace and curiosity into daily life. The effort, cost, and time often deter people from exploring hobbies like aquariums or terrariums. Inspired by the growing popularity of jarariums and terrariums, this project aims to create a simple, low-maintenance, and replicable system that makes this hobby accessible to more people.

How:

The ecosystem was created using easily accessible materials and designed for minimal maintenance. A plastic jar with a flat viewing panel avoids perspective distortion and makes cleaning straightforward. A disassembled and repurposed USB camping bulb provides the necessary light for the ecosystem, minimizing waste.

Inside the jar, a balanced system of plants and animals ensures sustainability:

• Amano shrimp control algae and organic debris.

• Pond snails break down waste and organic material, supporting nutrient recycling.

• Duckweed and frogbit shade the interior, regulate algae growth, and filter the water.

• The result is a closed ecosystem that thrives with little intervention, offering a window into the beauty of balance in nature.

Materials:

• Plastic jar with flat viewing panel

• USB camping bulb (disassembled and repurposed)

• Amano shrimp (nano shrimp species)

• Pond snails

• Aquatic plants (frogbit, duckweed)