Saturday, March 23, 2013

40 Year Self-Sustained Ecosystem

 

      
      This is a self-sustained ecosystem that hasn't been watered in over 40 years. David Latimer, pictured above, planted four Spiderwort (Tradescantia) seeds in 1960. Only one of the seeds took, but it had spectacular results. Last watered in 1970, this Spiderwort has survived only being watered once in 40 years.
       The plant self seeded and multiplied over the years. Dead leaves fell from the plant and produced the carbon dioxide and nutrients needed for growth, sun to photosynthsize, and ultimately producing oxygen.
      But how does a plant survive for 40 years only being watered once? Well, the water condensates to the top of the container and then rains down to water the plant. Yes! Rains. Plants truly can do some amazing things. 




Be on the lookout on how to make your own terrarium. 




-Wesley
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