Introduction
Jarrariums are miniature aquatic ecosystems contained within a glass jar or container. They are self-sustaining and require little to no maintenance, making them a popular choice for those who want to bring a piece of nature into their home or workspace. Jarrariums are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide a sense of calmness and serenity.
History of Jarrariums
Jarrariums have been around for centuries. The Japanese have been creating miniature aquatic gardens known as "bottle gardens" or "terrariums" since the 1600s. These miniature gardens were originally created as a way to display exotic plants and flowers that were difficult to grow in the traditional garden.
In the early 1900s, jarrariums became popular in Europe and America as people sought to bring a piece of nature into their homes. These initial jarrariums were simple and housed only a few aquatic plants and animals.
Nowadays, jarrariums have evolved to become more complex ecosystems, containing a variety of aquatic plants and animals that have been carefully chosen and arranged to create a balanced system.
Building a Jarrarium
Building a jarrarium is relatively simple and can be done with just a few materials. Here are the basic steps to create your jarrarium:
Materials:
- A glass jar or container
- Aquatic plants (such as java moss, hornwort, or duckweed)
- Aquatic animals (such as snails, shrimp, or small fish)
- Aquarium gravel or sand
- Activated carbon or filter sponge
Steps:
- Start by thoroughly cleaning your jar or container with hot water and soap. Rinse it several times to ensure that there are no traces of soap residue.
- Add a layer of aquarium gravel or sand to the bottom of the jar. This will provide a base for the aquatic plants and animals to root in.
- Add a layer of activated carbon or filter sponge on top of the gravel/sand layer. This will help to keep the water clean and clear by absorbing any impurities that may be present.
- Add aquatic plants to the jar. These can be arranged in any way you like, but it's important to choose plants that are suitable for the size of your jar and the amount of light it receives. Some popular choices include java moss, hornwort, and duckweed.
- Add aquatic animals to the jar. Again, it's important to choose animals that are suitable for the size of your jar and the amount of oxygen and nutrients available. Some popular choices include snails, shrimp, or small fish.
- Add water to the jar. Fill it with dechlorinated water until the water level is about an inch below the top of the jar.
- Carefully place the jar in a location that receives indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause the water to overheat and cause algae growth.
- Monitor the jarrarium regularly to ensure that the water is clean and clear, and that the plants and animals are thriving. If necessary, perform a water change (about 10% of the jar's volume) every 2-4 weeks to keep the water fresh.
Maintenance of Jarrarium
Unlike traditional aquariums, jarrariums require very little maintenance. Here are a few tips to keep your jarrarium thriving:
- Monitor the water level regularly and top it up as necessary to ensure that there is always enough water for the plants and animals to thrive.
- Monitor the plants and animals regularly to ensure that they are healthy and thriving. Remove any dead or decaying plants or animals promptly to avoid any contamination of the water.
- Perform water changes every 2-4 weeks to keep the water fresh and clean. Remove about 10% of the jar's volume and replace it with dechlorinated water.
- If necessary, clean the glass jar with hot water and soap, taking care to rinse it thoroughly to avoid any soap residue.
Benefits of Jarrariums
There are several benefits to having a jarrarium in your home or workspace. Here are just a few:
- Jarrariums are low-maintenance and require very little upkeep. They are a great choice for those who want to bring a piece of nature into their home but don't have the time or energy to maintain a traditional garden or aquarium.
- Jarrariums can improve the air quality in your home or workspace. Aquatic plants release oxygen into the air, which can improve the overall air quality and promote a sense of wellbeing.
- Jarrariums can be used as a way to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Watching the tranquil movements of the aquatic animals and the gentle sway of the plants can be a calming and soothing experience.
- Jarrariums can be used as an educational tool for children. They can learn about the different types of plants and animals that live in aquatic ecosystems and gain an appreciation for nature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, jarrariums are a wonderful way to bring a piece of nature into your home or workspace. They are easy to create and require very little maintenance, making them a great choice for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a natural ecosystem without the hassle of a traditional garden or aquarium. With just a few simple materials and some careful planning, you can create a beautiful and self-sustaining aquatic ecosystem that will provide hours of relaxation and enjoyment.
