200 Days Ago I Made an Ecosystem, This Happened!

Summary

In this engaging video, the creator shares the step-by-step process of building a thriving ecosystem terrarium for a brown centipede predator. Starting with a glass bowl, the creator adds a drainage layer, substrate barrier, and soil mix. The hardscape is crafted using black lava rocks, glued together for stability. Moss, broads, and fonia cuttings are strategically placed to create a lush environment. The terrarium comes to life with the introduction of springtails and the apex predator. After 200 days, the terrarium flourishes, with plants growing and the centipede hunting at night. The creator adds more creatures, like garlic snails, to maintain the ecosystem's balance, showcasing the beauty and complexity of this miniature world.

Takeaways

• 🌿 The creator built an ecosystem terrarium for a brown centipede, a voracious predator.
• 🏺 A glass bowl was chosen as the container for the terrarium.
• 💧 A drainage layer was constructed to prevent water from pooling in the substrate.
• 🚫 A substrate barrier was used to keep the substrate from entering the drainage layer.
• 🌾 The terrarium soil mix, or substrate, was added next, with specific components detailed in the description.
• 🗻 Black lava rocks were used for the hardscape, designed to resemble a volcano in the center of the terrarium.
• 🔨 Lava rocks were glued together with super glue and tissue to ensure stability.
• 🌳 Moss and plants like cushion moss and broads were added to bring life to the terrarium.
• 🌿 Small fonia cuttings and Oak Leaf creeping fig were planted to add more detail and climbing elements.
• 💧 The terrarium was watered, and springtails were introduced as a food source and to help with mold and decay.
• 🕷 The brown centipede was introduced as the apex predator, feeding on microorganisms in the substrate.
• 📈 After 200 days, the terrarium has thrived, with plants growing well and the ecosystem establishing nicely.
• 📹 The creator plans to add more creatures, such as garlic snails, to maintain the cleanliness of the terrarium.
• 🎥 The brown centipede has been elusive and difficult to capture on camera, but its presence is noted.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the glass bowl in the terrarium project?

The glass bowl serves as the container for the thriving ecosystem terrarium, providing a clear view of the developing environment.

Why is a drainage layer important in a terrarium?

A drainage layer is crucial to prevent water from sitting in the substrate, which could lead to root rot and other issues detrimental to plant health.

What is the role of the substrate barrier in the terrarium?

The substrate barrier prevents the terrarium soil mix from mixing with the drainage layer, maintaining the separation necessary for proper drainage and soil aeration.

What type of plants were used for the hardscape in the terrarium?

Black lava rocks were used to create a unique hardscape design resembling a volcano, providing texture and visual interest.

How were the lava rocks secured in the terrarium?

The lava rocks were locked together using super glue and tissue method to ensure stability and balance within the terrarium.

What kind of moss was used to cover the substrate in the terrarium?

Cushion moss was selected for its vibrant green color and ease of growth, covering the substrate in small patches.

Why were broads plants chosen for the terrarium?

Broad plants were chosen because they do not require substrate to grow and can obtain nutrients from water stored in their leaves, making them well-suited for a terrarium environment.

How were the plants attached to the lava rock?

A gel-type super glue was used to mount the plants in place on the lava rock, ensuring they stay attached without damaging the plants.

What role do springtails play in the terrarium ecosystem?

Springtails are essential as they consume mold and decay, helping to maintain a clean environment and also serve as a food source for the apex predator.

What is the apex predator in this terrarium ecosystem?

The apex predator is a brown centipede, which feeds on small microorganisms in the substrate and contributes to the balance of the ecosystem.

How did the terrarium evolve over the 200 days after its creation?

Over 200 days, the terrarium thrived with plants like the Oakleaf creeping fig climbing the lava rock, cushion moss growing significantly, and the addition of more creatures like garlic snails to maintain cleanliness.

What challenges have been faced in documenting the brown centipede's activity in the terrarium?

The brown centipede is nocturnal and elusive, making it difficult to capture on camera. It spends most of its time hiding in the moss and substrate.

What additional plants were added to the terrarium after 200 days?

Garlic snails were added to the ecosystem to help with decay and maintain cleanliness, contributing to the overall health of the terrarium.