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Ecophysiology as well as Ecotoxicology are main research areas coming to a better understanding of our Earth's Ecology. However, data obtained by this research can be transferred easily to space application. A controlled aquatic unit was developed, in which plants, fish, snails, shrimps and microorganisms can be reared in parallel. In a first approach the system behavior of the biological unit is investigated having it either completely closed or open with an “artificial lung” implemented. It could be demonstrated that the implementation of this artificial lung stabilizes the system enabling test runs over 4 weeks total duration. A second approach concentrates on the application of this multi-species system in ecotoxicological research. The influence of toxic chemicals, controlled introduced into the unit, on the ecosystem behavior is under investigation.

A space qualified artificial ecosystem was realized manufacturing the C.E.B.A.S.-Minimodule - a Closed Equilibrated Biological Aquatic System. New and off-the-shelf technology was used such the system complies with the requirements for a US Space Shuttle middeck locker. C.E.B.A.S. in the flown version had supported adult and juvenile swordtail fish Xiphophorus helleri, pond snails Biomphalaria glabrata, and the horn-weed water plant Ceratophyllum demersum. Bacteria within the filter system were responsible for de-nitrification and nitrification processes. C.E.B.A.S. was flown very successfully twice aboard STS 89 and STS 90 Neurolab in 1998. Further development towards the International Space Station ISS as well as towards Lunar or Mars bases are under evaluation mainly in regard to Bioregenerative/ Advanced Life Support, water quality management, food production, etc. Requirements, the realization and perspectives of the Minimodule are presented.