Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi var. ‘Snowball’
Common Name: Snowball Cherry Shrimp
Care Level: Easy / Beginner Friendly
Origin: Taiwan
Snowball Cherry Shrimp are a beautiful and unique freshwater dwarf shrimp recognised for their soft white to translucent colouration. Their delicate appearance provides a striking contrast against lush green plants and darker substrates, making them an attractive addition to planted aquariums, nano tanks and dedicated shrimp colonies.
Peaceful, active and relatively hardy, Snowball Shrimp are a great choice for beginners while offering something a little different for experienced shrimp enthusiasts.
Aquarium Requirements
Snowball Cherry Shrimp don’t require a large aquarium, with a 20 litre or larger setup providing a suitable environment for establishing a healthy colony. Smaller tanks can be used, although they can be more challenging to maintain due to fluctuations in temperature and water parameters.
A fully cycled and filtered aquarium is essential before introducing shrimp. Sponge filters are particularly suitable for dwarf shrimp, while standard aquarium filters can be fitted with a pre-filter sponge to prevent tiny juvenile shrimp from being drawn into the intake.
A heater may not be required if the aquarium is located in a consistently warm environment, however maintaining a stable temperature is recommended.
Snowball Shrimp appreciate plenty of shelter and grazing areas. Live plants, aquarium mosses, driftwood, rocks and shrimp hides all provide excellent cover while creating surfaces for natural biofilm growth.
Water Quality
Snowball Cherry Shrimp are relatively adaptable and can thrive across a range of water parameters, provided their environment remains clean, mature and stable.
Never introduce shrimp into an uncycled aquarium. Ammonia and nitrite should remain at zero, as shrimp can be particularly sensitive to poor water conditions.
Regular testing and partial water changes are recommended to maintain good water quality and keep nitrate levels under control. Avoid sudden changes in temperature, pH or water chemistry wherever possible.
Recommended Water Parameters
pH: 6.2–8.0
Temperature: 18–27.5°C
GH: 4–8
KH: 3–15
TDS: 150–250 ppm
Colour & Grading
Snowball Shrimp can naturally vary in their white colouration, translucency and overall appearance. Grading is subjective and classifications may differ between individual breeders, suppliers and retailers.
Shrimp supplied are generally juveniles, meaning their colour, size and individual characteristics may continue to develop as they mature.
Please note: As these are live animals, individual shrimp may naturally vary in size, colour and markings.
