Bio-Dome

A Bio-Dome refers to a controlled environment built to simulate a natural ecosystem. The term gained broader recognition from the 1996 comedy film of the same name, although the film's portrayal deviates significantly from scientific applications.

Scientifically, a bio-dome is a closed ecological system designed to study the complex interactions between plants, animals, microorganisms, and the environment, often with the aim of understanding sustainability and potential applications for space colonization or extreme environments on Earth. Real-world bio-domes are typically carefully engineered and monitored to maintain equilibrium and support life within their enclosed space. Key aspects of a bio-dome include:

• Closure: A physical barrier isolating the internal environment from the external environment, allowing for precise control of inputs and outputs.
• Ecosystem Representation: An attempt to recreate a miniature ecosystem with diverse species and functional groups.
• Sustainability: The goal of achieving a self-sustaining system capable of recycling resources and maintaining life without continuous external input.
• Research and Experimentation: Use as a platform for conducting scientific studies on ecological processes, resource management, and the impact of environmental changes.

The term "bio-dome" can also be used more loosely to describe any large, enclosed space containing a diverse plant collection, similar to a botanical garden or greenhouse, even if it isn't a completely closed or self-sustaining system.