Micro marvels thrive in glass menageries

Bio bottles

Fairy Land, a horticulture company based in Sichuan province, has tapped into the craze of young people wanting a touch of nature close by.

The company has launched an array of borosilicate glass bottles that house vibrant green micro-landscapes featuring moss, ferns, driftwood, stones, and climbing plants.

Upon closer inspection, tiny creatures like frogs and crabs can be found in the setting.

"These ecological bottles have already developed into small, self-sustaining ecosystems before they're sold. Once customers bring them home, they only need to occasionally mist them for upkeep," said a company employee surnamed Chen.

The large moss area continually releases oxygen, while microorganisms in the bottle support the crabs' survival. As long as a small amount of water is sprayed occasionally to maintain moisture, the ecosystem can be sustained indefinitely, Chen said.

These products are popular, with annual output value exceeding 20 million yuan, according to the company.

So far, the company has partnered with the bio-space creator Bioloark and opened stores in Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore.

"Next, we plan to expand nationwide and share our micro-landscape products, which bring nature into everyday life," Chen said.

Wang, the college teacher, said he intends to grow his hobby into a side business.

To date, he has fashioned several tanks carrying themed images from major scenic spots or other animated films, which have earned him more than 110,000 followers online.

With a deep understanding of aesthetic principles, design, and biology, Wang said he will strive to craft tanks that are both therapeutic and functional — offering a calming escape from the daily grind while maintaining the delicate balance of life within the tank.

"These tanks are not just visually pleasing, but also serve as a way to educate others about ecological balance and the importance of maintaining healthy aquariums," he said.