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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?



Make sure you label your work!

1 answer

Designing a terrarium for your pet frog is an exciting project! Below, I will outline the biotic and abiotic components you'll need to create a suitable environment for your frog.

Terrarium Design for Your Frog

1. Terrarium Structure:

  • Transparent enclosure (glass or plastic) to maintain humidity and allow light in.

Biotic Components (Living Things)

  • Frog: The main inhabitant, ensuring it is a species that can thrive in a terrarium environment, such as a White's Tree Frog or a Mimic Poison Frog.

  • Plants:

    • Ferns: Shade-loving plants that provide hiding spots.
      • Example: Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
    • Moss: Acts as ground cover, retains moisture, and provides a soft substrate.
      • Example: Sphagnum Moss
    • Tropical Plants: Smaller plants that can tolerate high humidity.
      • Example: Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) or Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

  • Microorganisms: Beneficial bacteria and fungi that help break down organic matter and maintain the ecosystem's health.

  • Invertebrates:

    • Isopods (Pill Bugs): Help with decomposition and aerate the substrate.
    • Springtails: Small insects that feed on mold and decaying matter.

Abiotic Components (Non-Living Things)

  • Substrate: A layer for the bottom of the terrarium, which can be a mix of:

    • Coconut coir (retains moisture)
    • Organic potting soil (provides nutrients)

  • Water Source:

    • Small shallow water dish for the frog to soak in and help maintain humidity.

  • Humidity and Temperature:

    • Humidity: Keep high (around 60-80%) using a spray bottle for misting, and a water dish for evaporation.
    • Temperature: Maintain a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C) by placing the terrarium in a warm room or using a heat lamp above one side for a gradient.

  • Light:

    • A low-wattage UVB bulb (if necessary for the specific frog species) to provide light and assist in the production of Vitamin D3.

  • Decor:

    • Rocks, driftwood, or hollow logs for climbing and hiding spots, providing the frog with a sense of security.

By combining these biotic and abiotic components, your terrarium will mimic a natural ecosystem, allowing your frog to thrive. Make sure to regularly monitor the conditions and adjust as necessary to keep everything in balance!