Cholla Wood

Cholla Wood is the dried skeleton of the cholla cactus (Cylindropuntia spp.), a desert plant whose inner fibrous structure forms a cylindrical, open lattice of interlocking fibres when the outer flesh decomposes. The result is a lightweight, tubular wood with hundreds of small openings covering the entire surface, creating an intricate cave-like structure at a scale perfectly suited to dwarf shrimp, nano fish, and small plecos.

Shrimp are particularly attracted to Cholla Wood as a foraging surface: the wood softens over time in water, developing a rich biofilm and fungal haze that shrimp rasp continuously with their feeding appendages. For Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp breeders, Cholla Wood tubes are frequently used as shelter structures where young shrimp can hide and feed safely.

Cholla Wood releases very few tannins compared to tropical hardwoods, resulting in minimal water discolouration. It will gradually soften and begin to break down after several months submerged, at which point it should be replaced. Its low cost and wide availability make it one of the most practical and functional decorative additions to a shrimp or nano tank.