As some of you may or may not know, my weekly column is published not only in some Indiana towns but also in an English language newspaper for British ex-pats living in Costa Blanca, Spain. Yesterday, I received this e-mail forwarded by the editor. I did a Google search on balanced biologic ecosystems and came up with some stuff but I don’t think that is what lady – her name is Margaret- is looking for. I was hoping someone here might help me out.
Attention Gordon Grindstaff. Please
Dear Sir,
I am writing to ask a favour and seeking information as you seem to be well versed in all matters of America.
I am looking for an american product, or at least I was told that it came from America. I was also told that it was available for purchase from an internet company called “atmosphere”. If it is I certainly cannot find it.
I will try and describe it to you; it is a clear plastic orb (like a snow scene but without the snow), approx. the size of a large cricket ball. The orb is filled with sweet water, leaving a small space inside at the top as an air space. The orb stands on a small stand or support to keep it in the upright position. In the orb, and with roots on the bottom, grows a small water plant, also in the orb and swimming around are four or five small black fish, approx 2 cm in length. The orb I saw had been on display for eight years, obviously without being opened. These units are permanently sealed and usually seem to last for about ten years. Unfortunately the one I saw developed a small leak in the plastic and finally the water ran out and the fish died. The whole idea of this unit to represent recycling in its purest form, as, the plant oxiginates the water and the fish eat the plant and then the fish excrement acts as food for the plant which keeps on growing to feed the fish and oxiginate the water. The fish grow very slowly so are perfectly happy in their environment, unless of course it develops a leak, in which case they have a problem.
I am very interested in finding the American? company who are selling this product as I would like to buy one for my grandchildren if possible.
I hope I have described this in an easy way to understand, as if you have not seen one it is difficult to describe. I was fascinated by it and to think that the fish had been living in there for eight years and were in perfect condition, the water also was perfectly clear as the plant keeps the interior area clean.
I do hope you can help me in my quest as I feel sure that if it does come from America you will surely know about it.
Many thanks in anticipation.
Margaret
Good times and bad 