Ecosphere: The Gift For Someone Who Has Everything

10 years later, and the ecosphere is still going strong.  I purchased this for my dad is 2002.  I thought it would be neat sitting on his desk.  It's a nice conversation piece and is aesthetically pleasing.

What's an ecosphere, you ask?  It's a glass globe that has all of the necessary items to keep tiny water urchins and plant life alive without ever opening it.  Each Ecosphere has some type of branch, plant life, and a few friendly brine shrimp.  I think mine started out with three.  After 10 years, the only little fella left is "Herman".

Why is this a perfect gift?

1. Chances are slim that someone already has one.
2. You will easily give the most unique gift at the party.
3. It works with just about any decor.  Place it on an office desk, nice bookshelf, or most anywhere that gets some sun exposure.
4. It's a good conversation piece.  "What the heck is that thing?" ... "Why is a miniature environment sealed in a glass ball of course".
5. It's pretty awesome.

I bought mine at Brookstone, but I don't know that they carry them any longer.  I did find them available at Hammacher Schlemmer.