White Pearl Shrimp

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Neocaridina zhangjiajiensis is native to Central China, specifically from the Hunan province (around Zhangjiajie). It inhabits cool mountain streams, small rivers, and pools rich in submerged roots, rock crevices, and aquatic plants over sandy and rocky substrates.

Taxonomy: Belonging to the family Atyidae, this species is closely related to *Neocaridina davidi*. The "White Pearl" is a captive-selected color variety. Adults grow to 2.5-3 cm in length, possessing the typical compact body structure and fine-tipped grazing claws.

Social Behavior: Completely peaceful, active, and gregarious. They spend their time foraging together on the substrate and plants. They should be kept in groups of 10-12 individuals to promote active social behavior and prevent them from hiding due to stress.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Body is translucent, glassy, and milky-white. The name "White Pearl" comes from the female's distinct chalky-white eggs, which look like small pearls. Females are larger and more colored, while males are smaller, slimmer, and almost completely transparent.

Tank Setup: A tank of at least 15-20 liters is ideal. Using a dark substrate or background is recommended to showcase their snow-white coloration. Plant heavily with mosses (such as Java or Christmas moss). Protect the filter intake with a fine sponge pre-filter.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous detritivores. They feed on biofilm, micro-algae, decaying organic matter, and leaf litter. Supplement their diet with high-quality shrimp pellets, spirulina, and dried catappa leaves. Avoid overfeeding to maintain high water quality.

Water Quality: Highly adaptable: temperature 18-26°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 6-15, KH 3-8, and TDS 150-300 ppm. Keep ammonia and nitrites at zero. Highly sensitive to copper-based treatments and commercial algaecides.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Ideal for species-only setups. Can be housed with small, peaceful snails and micro-fish (e.g. Otocinclus).

WARNING: Will crossbreed with other Neocaridina species (like *N. davidi*), resulting in wild-colored brown offspring.

Aquarium Breeding: Extremely easy. Females carry 20-30 white eggs under their abdomen for 3-4 weeks. The young hatch as fully formed miniature white shrimp and need abundant biofilm and powdered foods to survive and grow.

Risks and Diseases: Failed molts due to lack of minerals (low GH values) or sudden parameter swings. Susceptible to bacterial infections if organic wastes accumulate. Copper and chlorine are immediately lethal.