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EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem, Small Pod

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,925 ratings
Currently unavailable.
We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.
Brand EcoSphere
Target Species Fish
Material Glass
Special Feature Lightweight
Item Weight 2 Pounds
Shape Pod
Style Modern
Color Clear
Included Components Care handbook, EcoSphere

About this item

  • No maintenance aquarium, a complete miniature world
  • World's first totally enclosed ecosystem utilizing NASA technology
  • Unique gift item, perfect blend of science and art

Customer ratings by feature

Sheerness
4.3 4.3
Accuracy
4.3 4.3
Value for money
4.1 4.1
Longevity
4.0 4.0
See all reviews
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From the manufacturer

ecosphere shrimp detail image
small pod ecosphere

The EcoSphere

The EcoSphere is a completely closed, balanced, glass ecosystem. Inside each EcoSphere are shrimp, algae, and microorganisms in salt water. Because the EcoSphere contains everything it needs to thrive, you never have to feed the life within or change the water. All that is needed is a comfortable room temperature (between 65 and 80 F) and a source of light.

ecosphere handbook cover

early ecosphere production

EcoSphere Handbook

Each EcoSphere comes with a handbook detailing how to take care of the EcoSphere. Also included is an outer cleaning magnet that, when matched up with the magnet inside the EcoSphere, can be used to clean the inside of the EcoSphere.

Shrimp in the EcoSphere

The EcoSphere contains active marine shrimp that feed on the algae inside the EcoSphere. Each model of EcoSphere contains a certain number of shrimp based on the interior volume.

Early EcoSphere Production

EcoSphere Associates, Inc. is a family run business based in Tucson, Arizona. From startup in a small office complex Ecosphere Associates, Inc. has grown to a successful global company with manufacturing partners around the globe. To date, almost 1 million EcoSpheres have been manufactured.

Product information

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EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem, Small Pod

EcoSphere Closed Aquatic Ecosystem, Small Pod

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Product Description

Small pod EcoSphere (5. 25" tall). This fascinating enclosed world contains 3 to 4 marine shrimp, algae and micro-organisms. Made from hand blown glass, each EcoSphere is a completely enclosed, self-sustaining little world. The EcoSphere only needs indirect light and comfortable room temperature (between 60F and 80F. ) The EcoSphere works on the basis that a closed system recycles its nutrients and does not produce excess waste. The shrimp consume the algae and micro-organisms and they, in turn, break down the shrimp waste. External light, either artificial or natural, keeps the algae growing. There is no feeding or water changes required. Each EcoSphere comes with a replacement, recharge or upgrade policy.

Product details

  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
  • Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 3 x 3 x 5.25 inches; 2 Pounds
  • Item model number ‏ : ‎ SP-385
  • Date First Available ‏ : ‎ August 26, 2011
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Ecosphere Associates, Inc. - DROPSHIP
  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B005J0V33E
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,925 ratings

WARNING:

CHOKING HAZARD -- WARNING: This product contains small magnets. Swallowed magnets can stick together across intestines causing serious infections and death. Seek immediate medical attention if magnets are swallowed or inhaled.
CHOKING HAZARD -- Small parts. Not for children under 3 yrs.

Important information

Ingredients

glass, saltwater, marine shrimp, magnet, algae

Directions

Keep EcoSphere away from direct sunlight and between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit

Legal Disclaimer

Due to the live nature of the product EcoSpheres only ship to the contentinental USA, they cannot be shipped to Alaska, Hawaii, AFO/FPO, PO boxes, nor Internationally due to export/import requirements.

Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5 out of 5
1,925 global ratings

Customers say

Customers like the appearance, entertainment value, and ease of maintenance of the vivarium. For example, they mention it's attractive, lovely to look at, and easy to maintain. Some appreciate the discussion. That said, opinions are mixed on alive, value, quality, and size.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

229 customers mention224 positive5 negative

Customers find the vivarium very attractive, lovely to look at, and wonderful. They also say the design is cool and the little guys just flutter. Customers also mention that the shrimps are beautiful creatures and it's remarkable to look and contemplate.

"...When we opened the box-WOW-what a surprise. The pictures are amazing and accurate but do not do it justice at all. Quality, quality, quality...." Read more

"Amazing. What a spectacular scientific design. Ive only had my Ecosphere for 4 days and I already have the Red Hawaiian shrimp Molting...." Read more

"...Overall its a cool product, easy to care for, and its pretty to look at...." Read more

"...These shrimp are such beautiful creatures. I love the snails too. I hope they live happily for more than 20 years." Read more

122 customers mention122 positive0 negative

Customers find the vivarium interesting, fun to watch the tiny shrimp swim around, and mesmerizing. They also say it's fun to learn about the ecosystem and that it'll give them hours of enjoyment.

"...Its always a conversation pieces and so fun to look at! Would highly recommend!!" Read more

"...highly recommend this purchase for anyone-quality product with tons of enjoyment and no maintenance...." Read more

"...There is almost no maintenance, its fun to learn about the ecosystem, and they might live longer than a dog. Who knew." Read more

"...So far so good. Shrimp have been more active recently as well." Read more

57 customers mention57 positive0 negative

Customers find the vivarium easy to maintain. They mention that it requires no care and that it's easy to setup. Customers also appreciate the full instructions on care.

"...It requires no care for a ton of enjoyment.This has been way beyond my expectations for an unusual and unexpected gift for our house...." Read more

"...There is almost no maintenance, its fun to learn about the ecosystem, and they might live longer than a dog. Who knew." Read more

"...Overall its a cool product, easy to care for, and its pretty to look at...." Read more

"...3. It's elegant, simple, and hassle-free design leaves you without the burden of responsibility and is also aesthetic pleasing..." Read more

32 customers mention32 positive0 negative

Customers find the vivarium to be a great conversation piece. They say it's interesting to watch and makes for good entertainment.

"...Its always a conversation pieces and so fun to look at! Would highly recommend!!" Read more

"...It's also a great conversation piece.P.s. my shrimp are named Dora, Boots, Freddie, and Jason- What are yours?..." Read more

"...A great conversational piece, I've had a few friends already show interest in this piece...." Read more

"These things are so much fun. Great to look at great conversation around this ego sphere. I’ve really enjoyed it!" Read more

215 customers mention101 positive114 negative

Customers are mixed about the alive of the vivarium. Some mention that their shrimp are still alive and thriving, while others say that all of their shrimp have died.

"...8 months later. All of my shrimp have died but one. There’s hardly any algae for them to eat. I went by the manual. Out of the 6 months warranty." Read more

"...We purchased originally in 2017. Our shrimp are still alive and thriving! We have had it in an office setting and back at our house...." Read more

"...TWENTY. YEARS. That is older than most dogs.They are just slowly dying. Actually, a lot of them are quickly dying too...." Read more

"...UPDATED ON 9/15/2012 (4 WEEKS) The shrimp are still alive and moving around. The algae has maintained its same size and no build-up...." Read more

82 customers mention34 positive48 negative

Customers are mixed about the value of the vivarium. Some mention that it is totally worth the extra cost, a steal for the price paid, and a must have for the home. Others say that it's not worth the money for the longevity of the shrimps, wasting money, and too expensive to replace shrimp.

"...higher price just for those 2.3 inches you get... I'd argue its not worth the price. Go get a measure tape and pull out 7.5 inches...." Read more

"...2. Amazon offers the lowest online price (as far as I know.)3...." Read more

"...These things are way too expensive if they only last a year....someone should have stood up and made the right decision to just send me a new one...." Read more

"...They swim around when I sit down at my desk. Awesome purchase, I hope to get another, bigger one soon!" Read more

50 customers mention27 positive23 negative

Customers are mixed about the quality of the vivarium. Some mention that it's fun and easy, and the algae balance is perfect. Others say that the algae started to grow with northern exposure.

"...It has been sitting there 3 days now and the algae has about tripled in size...." Read more

"...All of my shrimp have died but one. There’s hardly any algae for them to eat. I went by the manual. Out of the 6 months warranty." Read more

"...doesn't keep it near a window, just across the room and its not overgrown with algae, it still looks pristine and the little guys just flutter around..." Read more

"...I've got one large tree branch in mine. A very small spot of green algae...." Read more

33 customers mention20 positive13 negative

Customers are mixed about the size of the vivarium. Some mention it's much smaller than expected, while others say it'll be a waste of money.

"...The algae has maintained its same size and no build-up. Again, just read the booklet and there is no maintenance required for such an unusual gift...." Read more

"...Now that I've gotten used to it, it's been a great size for me...." Read more

"...Well, actually, yes I can say more. The sphere is small, but that's exactly what I wanted...." Read more

"I love my little shrimpies. They are tiny but active. You can see their little feet sweeping the sides of the tank...." Read more

These things are amazing eight years later!
5 Stars
These things are amazing eight years later!
Purchased December 2015- So eight years later, one shrimp of the three is still going strong and it’s pretty darn amazing! As long as you keep it out of the heat and out of the sun, you’re in good shape!
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Top reviews from the United States

Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Pretty dang awesome!
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2024
Verified Purchase
We have loved having this ecosystem. We purchased originally in 2017. Our shrimp are still alive and thriving! We have had it in an office setting and back at our house. Its always a conversation pieces and so fun to look at! Would highly recommend!!
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Michele
5.0 out of 5 stars WOW!!! Excellent Gift Idea for Anyone
Reviewed in the United States on August 28, 2012
Verified Purchase
This item arrived within 3 days without special shipping, and over the weekend. It was packaged securely and the contents appeared to have traveled well.

When we opened the box-WOW-what a surprise. The pictures are amazing and accurate but do not do it justice at all. Quality, quality, quality. I purchased the small pod (oval) and it contained a good layer of white stones, shells, 3 pink and 1 grey shrimp. I recommend reading the booklet, it contains alot of information. It literally takes 2 minutes and gives a complete overview, especially regarding the lighting and cleaning. My family is very excited to have this and have been watching it all day. It requires no care for a ton of enjoyment.

This has been way beyond my expectations for an unusual and unexpected gift for our house. I will provide an update as time goes by but for now, feel extremely satisfied with this purchase.

UPDATED ON 9/15/2012 (4 WEEKS) The shrimp are still alive and moving around. The algae has maintained its same size and no build-up. Again, just read the booklet and there is no maintenance required for such an unusual gift. Everyone that visits our house from youth to adult is amazed and continues to watch it. Something that I noticed is that our pod has more gravel and a variety of shells more so than the pictures show.

I would highly recommend this purchase for anyone-quality product with tons of enjoyment and no maintenance.

UPDATED ON 2/22/2013 (6 MONTHS) All the shrimp are still alive and moving around. The algae has maintained its same size. About a week ago, I noticed a few smaller than pea size spots on the glass. I read the booklet regarding the spots and got the small booklet with the magnet. You just put the open exposed magnet GENTLY at the bottom to find and attach the inner magnet. I say GENTLY because you might not see it before it shoots up to your magnet and might injure a shrimp. I had about 5 spots and gently rubbed them out. It took maybe a minute. Again, just read the booklet for proper care then there is literally no maintenance required.
150 people found this helpful
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Kolby N.
5.0 out of 5 stars Final Update July7th2020
Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2017
Verified Purchase
Amazing. What a spectacular scientific design. Ive only had my Ecosphere for 4 days and I already have the Red Hawaiian shrimp Molting. I had noticed upon first receiving the Ecosphere that one of the shrimp werent moving as much as the other 3. Now that he/she has molted everything is fine. I have seen algae growth (light growth-dont overgrow) from the Ecosphere being under a fluorescent light 6 hours a day. This is my 3rd Ecosphere. My first 2 got destroyed in a move sadly and I wanted a replacement. This Ecosphere seems to be functioning better than both of the ones I owned in the past. I would definitely gift this to someone who loves science. It's also a great conversation piece.
P.s. my shrimp are named Dora, Boots, Freddie, and Jason- What are yours?

UPDATE October 16th 2019
I purchased this ecosphere in May 2017. I lost 3 shrimp after letting a friend take care of my ECO-Sphere while I was overseas but the eco system is going strong again! My last shrimp (let’s call him boots) has been consistently molting and is growing as time goes on. My algae almost died and turned a very dull poopy yellow color. Now the algae has recovered after a month in indirect sunlight and my shrimp has turned a nice red color. Now that it’s the winter I’m keeping my shrimp away from the indirect sunlight in my window and moving him to a timed fluorescent light that is on for 10 hours a day on a lighter lumen setting and should do the job. This will help the water stay at a nice 70-74 degree temperature! I’ll update you guys if my shrimp does suddenly pass away but things are good here!! That last pic is the final survivor and he is definitely active!

UPDATE July 7th 2020
My last Shrimp died over the weekend. I was deployed for a few months and during that time with nobody to care for him he sat in my closet. 6 months went by and I 100% expected him to be dead. Nope. Found him swimming partially (I’m not sure but there was no flex in his tail anymore). Today (1.5 months) after I got back I found him dead. It’s a sad day because I’ve had this pet throughout my military career and honestly it was a nice responsibility to have. I think 3 years was a good run. I’ll probably get a larger Eco-Sphere and see how long I can have that one live and I’m hoping the extra space will be kinder to my shrimp. Thanks all for reading my Reviews!
Customer image
Kolby N.
5.0 out of 5 stars Final Update July7th2020
Reviewed in the United States on May 27, 2017
Amazing. What a spectacular scientific design. Ive only had my Ecosphere for 4 days and I already have the Red Hawaiian shrimp Molting. I had noticed upon first receiving the Ecosphere that one of the shrimp werent moving as much as the other 3. Now that he/she has molted everything is fine. I have seen algae growth (light growth-dont overgrow) from the Ecosphere being under a fluorescent light 6 hours a day. This is my 3rd Ecosphere. My first 2 got destroyed in a move sadly and I wanted a replacement. This Ecosphere seems to be functioning better than both of the ones I owned in the past. I would definitely gift this to someone who loves science. It's also a great conversation piece.
P.s. my shrimp are named Dora, Boots, Freddie, and Jason- What are yours?

UPDATE October 16th 2019
I purchased this ecosphere in May 2017. I lost 3 shrimp after letting a friend take care of my ECO-Sphere while I was overseas but the eco system is going strong again! My last shrimp (let’s call him boots) has been consistently molting and is growing as time goes on. My algae almost died and turned a very dull poopy yellow color. Now the algae has recovered after a month in indirect sunlight and my shrimp has turned a nice red color. Now that it’s the winter I’m keeping my shrimp away from the indirect sunlight in my window and moving him to a timed fluorescent light that is on for 10 hours a day on a lighter lumen setting and should do the job. This will help the water stay at a nice 70-74 degree temperature! I’ll update you guys if my shrimp does suddenly pass away but things are good here!! That last pic is the final survivor and he is definitely active!

UPDATE July 7th 2020
My last Shrimp died over the weekend. I was deployed for a few months and during that time with nobody to care for him he sat in my closet. 6 months went by and I 100% expected him to be dead. Nope. Found him swimming partially (I’m not sure but there was no flex in his tail anymore). Today (1.5 months) after I got back I found him dead. It’s a sad day because I’ve had this pet throughout my military career and honestly it was a nice responsibility to have. I think 3 years was a good run. I’ll probably get a larger Eco-Sphere and see how long I can have that one live and I’m hoping the extra space will be kinder to my shrimp. Thanks all for reading my Reviews!
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174 people found this helpful
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JordanPond
5.0 out of 5 stars Almost lived 8 years
Reviewed in the United States on March 2, 2024
Verified Purchase
We purchased an EcoSphere in 2016, and the shrimp lived ALMOST 8 YEARS. We recently moved, and I think the chilly trip in the moving truck caused the demise of the remaining shrimp.

If you're considering getting one for your kids as a fun starter pet, do it. There is almost no maintenance, its fun to learn about the ecosystem, and they might live longer than a dog. Who knew.
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Megan T Harrell
5.0 out of 5 stars Such a cool conversational piece
Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2021
Verified Purchase
All 4 of my shrimp were alive when it arrived and it’s been 2 weeks and all 4 are still alive. The ecosphere is a really neat piece. The company gives you a guide book and in it states if something happens within 6 months to the shrimp they will replace it. I got the small one but if you get the large one it’s warranty is a year. The shipping was really fast and came a lot sooner than it said right after it was ordered. The ecosphere came in a box that said fragile to keep right side up.and to open immediately. You get everything you need to take care of the ecosphere. It even comes with the magnet to easily clean it with however after just 2 wks mine still is not dirty yet.

8 months later. All of my shrimp have died but one. There’s hardly any algae for them to eat. I went by the manual. Out of the 6 months warranty.
One person found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Gift!
Reviewed in Canada on January 6, 2021
Verified Purchase
Very cool little ecosphere. It arrived safely with great packaging. Only one shrimp didn't make it but there are several others still kicking.
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Karen G.
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing!
Reviewed in Australia on January 21, 2019
Verified Purchase
Excellent Christmas present for my son.
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Nick Angelatos
5.0 out of 5 stars It's beautiful!
Reviewed in Canada on September 17, 2020
Verified Purchase
It's beautiful! Came with at least 5 shrimp. They are hard to count. I am so happy I didn't get an EcoSphere with dead shrimp in it!
Customer image
Nick Angelatos
5.0 out of 5 stars It's beautiful!
Reviewed in Canada on September 17, 2020
It's beautiful! Came with at least 5 shrimp. They are hard to count. I am so happy I didn't get an EcoSphere with dead shrimp in it!
Images in this review
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Amara Balogh
4.0 out of 5 stars Came with 4 little shrimp inside and happy to say 4 months later they are all still ...
Reviewed in Canada on November 14, 2017
Verified Purchase
Came with 4 little shrimp inside and happy to say 4 months later they are all still alive and doing well!
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Gayl
1.0 out of 5 stars No life
Reviewed in Canada on January 8, 2020
Verified Purchase
There was no life when this arrived. We returned the product.
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