Decomposing Ecosystem

DIY Decomposing Ecosystem in a Jar

Make your own mini composting forest floor! This simple activity lets you observe how dead matter breaks down and returns nutrients to the soil—an essential part of every ecosystem.

Decomposing ecosystems are powered by the breakdown of organic matter by fungi, bacteria, and invertebrates like worms or springtails. This process recycles nutrients and supports soil fertility, plant growth, and the balance of life.

What You’ll Need:

• A transparent jar or glass container

• Moist garden soil or compose

• Layers of dry leaves, fruit/vegetable peels, twigs, shredded paper

• A few earthworms or springtails (optional)

• Spray bottle with clean water

• A stick or spoon for layering

• Inverted paper cone (placed on top of the jar)

How to Make It:

1. Start with Soil (2–3 cm): This is your microbe-rich base.

2. Add Organic Layers: Dry leaves, shredded paper, fruit peels, twigs—layer them loosely. Alternate soil and waste to mimic nature’s layers.

3. Moisten Gently: Spray water lightly to make it damp—not wet.

4. Add Decomposers (optional): Tiny insects or worms can help speed up the breakdown.

5. Place the Inverted Paper Cone:

6. Cut a circle and make a cone (like a party hat).

7. Invert it over the mouth of the jar—pointy side up.

8. This acts like a mini moisture trap and vent:

9. Traps humidity to keep the system moist

10. Lets gases escape to prevent moldy buildup

11. Prevents external bugs from entering

Care & Observation:

• Place in a cool, shaded place—no direct sunlight.

• Observe daily.

• Fungal growth (white fuzz or mold)

• Shrinking or darkening of organic matter

• Earthworm or insect movement

• Water droplets condensing inside the cone

• Turn gently with a stick every few days to aerate (optional).

What You’ll Learn:

This jar shows how ecosystems recycle their own waste. It brings alive the roles of:

• Decomposers (fungi, bacteria, detritivores)

• Nutrient cycling and humus formation

• The carbon cycle

• Microclimate control using the cone—similar to forest canopy layers that trap moisture