EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem Review

The EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem is, as the name suggests, a closed ecosystem with a lovely finish, containing a minimalistic approach to the internal design.

The added LED lighting brings this ecosystem to a level of its own and the effect is enhanced by the smooth glass finish. In appearance, it looks timeless and is sure to fit in any home, no matter what your personal tastes happen to be.

Since this is an entirely closed ecosystem, you will have zero responsibilities in keeping the interesting wildlife happy and healthy.

That being said, it also means that you will not be able to refill the sphere should all of your shrimp die.

Of course this limited lifespan is the biggest drawback on what amounts to a miniature aquarium, but is it truly a reason to completely ignore a self-sustaining, miniature environment?

We have uncovered all the details, so read on to discover if it’s the right purchase for you.

EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem: The Details

Specs

• Weight: 5 lbs.
• Dimensions: 5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches.
• Lighting: LED lighting included at the base.
• Glass or Acrylic: Glass.
• Accessories: Live shrimp, algae, and small decorative items.

Features

Hand Blown Glass

Ecosystems by their very nature require little of your input regarding decoration; their entire purpose is to arrive as complete as possible, so you can enjoy their company without additional effort.

As such, the hand-blown glass is a welcome feature, adding a touch of elegance to the well-designed bowl. The ecosystem will arrive without any blemishes.

Displaying it in an area where people often pass is sure to get you some compliments with this sphere – but be sure that it’s not in danger of getting knocked over.

Fully Closed Ecosystem

Some ecosystems still require you to put in a degree of effort, such as lifting the lid every month or adding some food when necessary.

The EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem arrives completely sealed and requires nothing from you once it has been placed.

The instructions on how to care for this ecosystem are simple. By placing it in an averagely lit space, specifically in a room of normal temperature, you’re ensuring a long and healthy life for the inhabitants of this little sphere.

So, just locate it on your desk and enjoy. On the downside, you won’t be able to refill this sphere when its inhabitants pass on from natural causes.

LED Lighting

Standing out as a closed ecosystem isn’t easy. However, once you have the basics down, it’s time to really review what could be an optimal new feature.

As the EcoSphere arrives – specifically, the Closed Aquatic Ecosystem Large Sphere with LED Base – you’ll find that it stands out in one very specific way.

The included LED lighting at the base is a unique and fun way of showcasing your new ecosystem without actually having to alert other people to it.

Once darkness begins to settle in, you can activate the lights and enjoy your mini aquarium with some flare.

Fully Furnished

Some people like tinkering with their ecosystems. While this can be done if you know what you’re doing, a truly successful ecosystem looks its best upon arrival and manages to convince you without promising extras.

The EcoSphere may look sober with its one tree and a patch of moss, but that’s all it needs to accomplish its purpose. The included shrimp live harmoniously with the invisible microbes and require no additional care.

This really is an item that’s intended to be enjoyed without fuss, so be ready to accept your new pets – no strings attached.

EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem Review

The Positives

No Interaction Required

We’ve all been there at one point in our life – at the receiving, or even at the issuing, end of the phrase, “A pet is too much responsibility, and who is going to take care of it?”

It’s not fun to hear, but it is important to be reminded of this simple truth every once in a while.

If you’re looking for a low maintenance pet that’s mainly just there to look pretty, these shrimp definitely fit the bill.

You won’t even need to feed them. Simply place them somewhere where you can enjoy the view – and that’s your job done!

This is great for busy-bodies who don’t have the time to attend to a pet full-time, but still want to enjoy having a pet in their home.

This is also a good option for teaching kids about ecosystems since they won’t be required to do a thing, meaning less room for mistakes, and fewer tears shed.

All-in-One Purchase

The EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem comes with everything you need to take care of your new pets al in one go. No need to restock at your local pet store, or spend extra money on accessories.

As mentioned your closed ecosystem will be just that, closed, but you’ll receive your cleaning magnet and LED stand as well.

No need to worry about shipping either. While this item is definitely one that needs to be handled with care, customers reported their new pets and aquarium arriving safely cushioned in appropriate packaging.

They also make sure to ship these items quickly, so you get your aquarium and shrimp ASAP.

This is great for the minimalist hobbyist who doesn’t want to be bothered with purchasing a ton of additions for their pets.

Fits Anywhere

Thanks to the small size and overall light weight of the EcoSphere, you won’t have any problems finding a spot to place this fun accessory.

Because of its sober and classy looks, you’ll be able to fit this ecosystem everywhere.

Even if your tastes in furniture are more eclectic, the see-through glass means that no matter where this ecosystem ends up, you’ll find it’s always a perfect match.

It can fit seamlessly into a variety of decor while adding a modern or retro pop thanks to its spherical shape and muted color.

It weighs in at just five pounds, making it easy to move around when you have to rearrange your home, or move houses altogether.

Sets the Mood

The added LED lights make this sphere something that truly stands out once darkness falls.

The LED lights have four color setting options, as well as a pulse option so you can coordinate the lights to fit the vibe of your home.

The perfectly finished glass is an ideal accompaniment to the LED-lighting, making the ecosystem stand out even more. Be sure to move your sphere to a good spot for maximum effect.

This aquarium can easily add a bit of calming light to your living room or bedroom without being a ton of fuss.

Conversation Starter

If you’re looking for something unconventional that gets people excited to learn more, closed ecosystems are really the way to go.

The design itself is sure to stir up some attention, and the lights will draw eyes to it, but apart from looking good, the EcoSphere is also a great way of getting others interested in biology and ecology.

Young children are sure to be fascinated by these ecosystems, and even their parents are sure to pick up a few interesting nuggets of wisdom.

This is great for the starting hobbyist who cares about how every piece looks in their home, or for the fashionista who wants their personality to shine, even through their aquarium.

Perfect Gift Idea

Seeking a gift for someone who already has everything? Apart from being truly unique, this is also a gift that comes with zero responsibility and the chance to learn something new.

Its unique aspect makes it a great home improvement item that’s sure to fit in any home, and a great gift for someone you know who loves animals and fish, but just can’t commit to owning any.

There’s bound to be someone in your life who’s going to geek out over a closed ecosystem – if that person isn’t you yourself.

The Negatives

No Intervention Possible

Since this is a completely sealed ecosystem, you won’t be able to intervene if some of your shrimp decide they don’t like each other.

While this doesn’t happen often, some owners have admitted to finding a shrimp that’s suddenly lost a leg.

While this isn’t a permanent condition for shrimp, it might make some people uncomfortable.

Unspoken Life Span

The odds of your shrimp getting sick or seriously harmed in any way are low, since there’s no way for bacteria to enter this ecosystem. But, just like any animal, shrimp have to die at some point.

While some testers have mentioned being able to keep their shrimp alive for a decade, you will have to be aware that, at some point, they will die of old age.

Since this ecosystem is dependent on both shrimp and bacteria to remain active, that also means this ecosystem does not last forever.

Overall Verdict

The EcoSphere is a prime example of how to make a perfect closed ecosystem.

Requiring zero intervention, apart from some smarts in choosing a location, this is the perfect accessory for those who are looking for something a bit unique without sacrificing their own comfort.

All in all, the EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem is a great way of getting acquainted with this aquarium design.

The set-up is accessible to anyone, and despite the unspoken lifespan limit, it is a recommendation to both young and older users.

Where to Buy the EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem

Closed Aquatic Ecosystems are a great way to introduce pet lovers into being owners, and EcoSphere has made their popular product even more attractive with the addition of the LED base.

EcoSphere has a number of closed aquatic ecosystems available in their product lineup, varying in sizes and prices, making closed aquariums accessible to a wide number of hobbyists.

With this brand and this aquarium style growing in popularity, more retailers are choosing to display EcoSphere items both in-store and online.

While it’s always best to check pet and specialty store, you can kick-start your search with the following online retailers.

• Eco-Sphere (from $249)
• I Love Science Store (from $299)

And of course, you can also find the EcoSphere on Amazon.

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That’s all for our EcoSphere review. Are you curious to have this in your space?