This amphipod shrimp is of bluish-white colour, has well developed black eyes and a length of 4 to 7 mm. It can be recognised by its distinctive locomotory behaviour as unlike other amphipods, it does not crawl on its side but walks upright like a talitroid.

This species has a red ID rating and unless identified by a known expert you must provide a satisfactory explanation of how it was identified for the record to be accepted.

Habitats include lakes, permanent and temporary ponds, rivers, streams etc. It often occupies the most polluted areas of a river where no native freshwater shrimp can be found.

All year round.

Widespread in much of Britain, though not well recorded in the far north.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.