How Do Terrariums Get Oxygen? Is Ventilation Necessary?

Last updated on November 19th, 2024 at 09:15 am

With terrariums, you can grow plants without the mess of traditional gardening. Some terrariums are closed. You might wonder how do terrariums get oxygen and air in the closed jar. A little science is all it takes to make this happen. 

How Do Closed Terrariums Get Oxygen?

Terrariums are small, self-sustaining ecosystems that can thrive without constant intervention. If you’ve ever wondered how closed terrariums—those sealed glass jars or containers—get oxygen, you’re not alone. The answer lies in a fascinating combination of plant processes and a little bit of science.

Closed terrariums rely on the principles of photosynthesis and transpiration to maintain a steady cycle of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Plants inside these mini ecosystems play a crucial role in producing oxygen and ensuring that the air inside remains breathable for them.

The Science Behind Oxygen in Closed Terrariums

In a closed terrarium, oxygen is produced primarily through photosynthesis. This is the process where plants absorb sunlight, carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the air, and water from the soil to create glucose (food) and release oxygen (O₂). During the day, plants photosynthesize, releasing oxygen into the air inside the terrarium. This process ensures that the oxygen levels remain stable for the plants to continue thriving.

Additionally, plants in a closed terrarium undergo respiration, which is the process by which they take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, similar to animals. However, this exchange is balanced out by the photosynthesis process, which compensates for the oxygen used during respiration.

How Do Plants in Terrariums Get Air?

Terrarium plants get air primarily through two processes: transpiration and photosynthesis.

• Transpiration is when plants release water vapor through tiny pores in their leaves called stomata. As water evaporates, it helps create a cycle that pulls in air from the surrounding environment. This cycle ensures that the oxygen levels inside the terrarium remain stable. Additionally, transpiration helps to regulate the humidity, which is critical for plant health.
• During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) and release oxygen (O₂). This exchange is vital for their survival and growth. In a closed terrarium, plants have access to a steady supply of light, water, and CO₂, which they use to create oxygen.

By maintaining a balance of air and moisture, closed terrariums function like tiny, self-sustaining ecosystems.

How Do Closed Terrariums Stay Alive?

Closed terrariums manage to stay alive due to the continuous cycles of photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration within the system. Here’s how the process works in more detail:

• Oxygen from Transpiration and Photosynthesis: Plants in a closed terrarium use sunlight to perform photosynthesis, which produces glucose (food) and oxygen (O₂). The oxygen is released into the air, helping maintain healthy air levels inside the enclosure.
• Water Cycle: Water plays a key role in the oxygenation process. Plants absorb water from the soil and use it in photosynthesis. Any excess water evaporates through the leaves, helping maintain humidity levels in the terrarium.
• Soil and Nutrients: The soil in a terrarium provides essential nutrients to the plants. It also plays a role in maintaining oxygen levels by holding moisture that evaporates into the air. Decaying plant matter can also release gases, which further supports the plant’s growth and oxygen cycle.
• Humidity and Temperature: The humidity inside a closed terrarium plays a crucial role in sustaining the plants and maintaining oxygen levels. The humidity allows the plants to transpire and exchange gases, while the temperature helps regulate the overall environment.

Do Closed Terrariums Need Ventilation?

In a closed terrarium, ventilation is generally not required because the ecosystem within the container is self-sustaining. The plants create enough oxygen through photosynthesis and transpiration to maintain a healthy environment. However, closed terrariums should still be occasionally opened for aeration to prevent the build-up of excess moisture or stagnant air, which could lead to mold or fungus growth.

Why Ventilation Isn’t Needed in Closed Terrariums:

1. Self-Sustaining Ecosystem: A closed terrarium essentially functions as a miniature ecosystem where the plants create the necessary oxygen, moisture, and nutrients. The air inside remains balanced thanks to the constant exchange of gases between the plants, water, and soil.
2. No Need for Outside Air: Since closed terrariums are sealed, there’s no need for outside air to enter. The plants and the soil work together to keep the oxygen levels stable. Too much external air can disturb the balance and may allow unwanted elements like dust, pests, or contaminants into the terrarium.
3. Humidity and Heat: The plants inside generate enough humidity and warmth to sustain themselves and keep the environment stable. The water vapor released by plants during transpiration helps maintain the necessary moisture levels.
4. Maintaining Moisture Levels: Closed terrariums are designed to maintain their internal moisture levels through condensation. Water evaporates, condenses on the sides of the jar, and then falls back down to the soil, continuing the cycle.

Do Open Terrariums Need Ventilation?

Unlike closed terrariums, open terrariums require proper ventilation because they rely on oxygen from the outside atmosphere. Open terrariums lack the self-contained ecosystem of a closed one, so they need adequate airflow to prevent the environment from becoming too hot or humid.

Why Open Terrariums Need Ventilation:

1. Oxygen Exchange: Open terrariums require a regular influx of oxygen from the surrounding air. Without proper ventilation, oxygen levels can drop, harming the plants inside.
2. Humidity Control: Since open terrariums are more exposed to the air, they are more likely to experience fluctuating humidity levels. Without ventilation, the humidity could either become too high (leading to mold growth) or too low (which can stress plants).
3. Preventing Stagnation: Ventilation helps prevent the air inside from becoming stagnant. This ensures a constant exchange of gases, which is crucial for maintaining plant health.

Conclusion

In summary, closed terrariums do not need external ventilation because they function as self-sustaining ecosystems. The plants inside generate enough oxygen and moisture through photosynthesis and transpiration. However, occasional opening for fresh air and maintenance is essential to prevent mold or moisture imbalance. On the other hand, open terrariums do require ventilation to maintain a healthy oxygen supply and prevent the destabilization of the environment. Whether closed or open, the key to a thriving terrarium is creating the right balance of light, moisture, and air for the plants inside.