MESOCOSM VIRTUAL LAB ACTIVTY

Game Virtual ecosphere - Games68.com

Analysis Questions:

1. Why is it important that our mesocosms be transparent (clear / see-through) instead of opaque?

In order to observe and evaluate the natural environment under controlled conditions.

2. Explain the roles of the following organisms in maintaining a sustainable mesocosm: autotrophs,
saprotrophs, detritivores, and consumers:
Autotrophs are an essential component in mesocosms to produce carbon compounds and
regenerate oxygen used in cell respiration.
Saprotrophs are essential in mesocosms to decompose dead organic matter and recycle nutrients.
Consumers and detritivores may not be essential in mesocosms, but are a normal part of an
ecosystem so they are normally included.

3. How are we ensuring that the oxygen supply is sufficient for aerobic organisms even though the
mesocosm is sealed?
the reaction between co2 and h20 produces sufficient oxygen for the plant to survive even if mesocosm
is sealed.

4. How can we help limit the suffering / harm to animal organisms in the mesocosm?

the oxygen, co2 and h2o is reused in the mesocosm and is utilised by the animals hence reduces
suffering

Week Observations

80% sunlight

20% O2
1
70% CO2

10% biomass

80% sunlight
0% O2

100% CO2
2
10% biomass

3 70% sunlight
 0% O2

100% CO2

30% biomass

70% sunlight

0% O2

100% CO2

30% biomass

70% sunlight

0% O2

100% CO2

30% biomass
● Was your mesocosm sustainable? Explain why or why not based on your observations.

It is not sustainable because oxygen is not reused and is decreased to 0%, even though there is sufficient
sunlight, photosynthesis is not producing enough oxygen.