James wants to create a self-sustaining ecosystem, or vivarium. which method would most likely result in an ecosystem that is viable for the longest amount of time with no additional care? put a few plants, water, sand, and a heat lamp inside a clear glass aquarium and seal the top. place it in a sunny location. put water, fertilizer, soil, plants and insects in an open, clear glass aquarium. place it in an area that has some sunlight and some shade. put rocks, water, and many plants in an open, dark-colored plastic tub. place it in an area with direct sunlight. put soil, water, many plants, a

The last sentence I can see that you wrote is "Place it in an area with direct sunlight. Put soil, water, many plants, a" which cuts off half way (accidentally?) so my answer is based on all that I can see. 

"Put water, fertilizer, soil, plants and insects in an open, clear glass aquarium. Place it in an area that has some sunlight and some shade." is likely to be a self-sustaining ecosystem for the longest amount of time. This is because it is not in direct sunlight, is not sealed so the animals have exposure to oxygen (needed for aerobic respiration).

If you want I can check again if you finish the last sentence if you think that it may change the answer?