While strolling through one of my favorite garden shops, I noticed a large glass bioactive terrarium. Since I had no idea of what that was, I stopped to read the signage on the glass enclosure.
Immediately I noticed a large black bug in what looks like a terracotta water bowl.
This bioactive terrarium needs further investigation.
Apparently, in this terrarium are superworm darkling beetles. They are the adult form of the superworms that are made into nutrient-rich bird and reptile food. These beetles can surprisingly live for 3 to 15 years. They eat decaying plants but, according to the signage on the terrarium, favor carrots and cat food.
What is a Bioactive Terrarium?
A bioactive terrarium includes arthropods that improves the overall health of the terrarium by acting as a small ecosystem. The terrarium, also, includes both plant and small invertebrates.
Waste products are consumed by a variety of detritivores often known as the “clean-up crew”.
The “clean-up crew” must have sufficient hiding spots to avoid being completely depopulated. You can see the overturned old terracotta pots in this enclosure which helps hide the beetles.
Ending Notes
This bioactive terrarium is both interesting and educational.
I would like to watch the “clean-up crew” in action and see the small changes within it. Nature is ever evolving in this bioactive terrarium.
As always, a big Thank You to the people at Merrifield Garden Center for allowing me to use photographs taken in their store for my blog. Also, my thanks to the plant specialists at their “plant doctor” area for examining my azalea clippings and instructing me on how to get rid of the lace bugs.
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Resource Sites: Wikipedia