Snowball Shrimp care guide
Snowball Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi var. 'Snowball') — minimum tank 20 L, temperature 20-26 °C, pH 7-8.
Overview
Snowball Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi var. 'Snowball') is a freshwater dwarf shrimp of the family Atyidae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as a beginner-level species. Translucent white Neocaridina that lays distinctive solid white eggs (hence the name). Females noticeably whiter than males.
Taxonomy
- Family: Atyidae
- Genus: Neocaridina
- Scientific name: Neocaridina davidi var. 'Snowball'
- Common synonyms: White Pearl, Snowflake Shrimp
Habitat
The wild ancestor Neocaridina davidi originates from Taiwan and adjacent eastern China, where it inhabits lowland streams, ditches and ponds with abundant submerged vegetation and leaf litter. Colour forms are selectively bred from the dark wild type and propagated in commercial culture worldwide. The Aquairi knowledge base records this entry from: Germany (selectively bred from N. cf. zhangjiajiensis).
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 20 L (5.3 US gal)
- Adult size: 2-3 cm
- Temperature: 20-26 °C (68-79 °F)
- pH: 7-8
- GH: 6-14 °dGH
- KH: 3-10 °dKH
- Lifespan: 1-2 years
Diet
A grazing detritivore. In the aquarium the shrimp continuously feeds on biofilm, soft algae, decaying plant matter and dropped food. A small daily ration of a shrimp-formulated sinking pellet, occasional blanched spinach or zucchini and rare protein wafers keep the colony in good condition without polluting the water.
Compatibility
Peaceful and best kept in a colony of ten or more in a stable, well-cycled, planted aquarium. Suitable tank mates listed in the Aquairi knowledge base: Otocinclus, Pygmy Cory, Nerite Snail. Should be kept away from: Cichlids, Crayfish.
Breeding
Reproduces in fresh water without a planktonic larval stage. Mature females develop ripe ovaries visible as a yellow or olive "saddle" on the back; after a successful moult they are fertilised by males and carry the fertilised eggs under the pleopods for roughly three to four weeks before juveniles hatch as miniature fully-formed shrimp. Stable parameters and absence of predation are the main success factors.