How it works
The Biosphere
The biosphere (for example, the 1.1) is a real underwater “greenhouse” hatch, with a semi-spherical shape. Like a large transparent room anchored at the bottom of the sea, it holds around 2,000 liters of air and may float at a depth of 6 to 11 meters below the surface.
Hydroponic Farming
Our greenhouse is hydroponic-based, meaning plants grow in a flowing nutrient-rich-film solution instead of soil. We have designed and installed a specific system: a 10-meter (400-inch long) segmented-spiral tube where fresh water mixed with fertilizer flows, accommodating up to 100 seedbeds. The shelfs remain available for other equipment/operations, nurseries or microgreen.
Fresh water Production
Sunlight and heat (greenhouse effect) cause seawater to evaporate, into distilled, fresh water. The inner volume quickly reaches high humidity levels and water can be seen condensing on the greenhouse’s inner surface, which is collected and mixed with fertilizers to nourish the plants. The irrigation water is stored in a tank at the end of the spiral, and a pump pushes water back to the top, where it descends by gravity, carrying food and oxygen to the plant roots.
A self-sustainable system
The warm and stable sea temperature, along with the cyclic evaporation and condensation of saltwater into fresh water, creates ideal growing conditions for plants in Nemo’s Garden. Underwater conditions, including increased atmospheric pressure (+1 ATM), light, and humidity, lead to accelerated growth and a higher concentration of essential oils and antioxidants, resulting in a more intense and distinctive flavor compared to surface-grown plants.
