You will be turning in Sample Work for this Unit! Here are the instructions. You can also find these on Unit 3, Lesson 6, Page 3:

Question

Imagine you have been given your first pet frog and decide you want to design a terrarium for the frog to live in. Terrariums can be thought of as mini-ecosystems, where the plants and animals growing inside receive all the biotic and abiotic components needed for life. Using what you’ve learned about the biotic and abiotic components of common ecosystems, design your frog’s ecosystem.



-What are the biotic components of the terrarium?



-What are the abiotic components?

Answer 1

Designing a Terrarium for Your Pet Frog

When creating a terrarium for your pet frog, it's important to consider both the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components that will create a healthy and sustainable micro-ecosystem. Below is a proposed design and the components you should include.

Biotic Components

1. Plants:

   • Ferns: Provide shade and humidity, as frogs thrive in moist environments.
   • Moss: Retains moisture and creates a soft ground cover for the frog.
   • Pothos or Ivy: Climbing plants that add vertical structure and are hardy.

2. Insects (as a food source if necessary):

   • Fruit Flies: Small and easy for young frogs to catch.
   • Crickets: A staple food for many frog species.
   • Isopods (pill bugs): Help with decomposition and aeration of the substrate.

3. Frog Species:

   • Choose a specific species of frog, like a Whites Tree Frog or Pacman Frog, which are common in captivity.

4. Microorganisms:

   • Beneficial bacteria and fungi that help decompose organic matter and maintain a healthy substrate.

Abiotic Components

1. Substrate:

   • A mix of coconut coir, peat moss, and organic topsoil that retains moisture while allowing drainage.

2. Water Source:

   • A shallow water dish that allows the frog to soak and stay hydrated. Make sure to use dechlorinated water.

3. Humidity:

   • Maintain humidity levels between 50-70% by misting the terrarium regularly and using appropriate substrate.

4. Temperature:

   • A heat lamp or a basking spot should be created on one side of the terrarium to provide a temperature gradient (70-80°F) for the frog to regulate its body temperature.

5. Light:

   • Suitable lighting (like a grow light or natural sunlight) that can support plant growth without overheating the terrarium or harming the frog.

6. Ventilation:

   • Ensure the terrarium has a well-ventilated lid to prevent mold growth and allow proper air circulation.

Conclusion

Creating a balanced terrarium for your pet frog involves carefully considering both the living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components. By providing a suitable mix of plants, animals, and environmental conditions, you can establish a thriving mini-ecosystem that offers your frog a comfortable and healthy habitat.