Why collected materials matters
Wood collected outdoors may have unknown species, contaminants, or treatments, so it is difficult to assess for a shrimp aquarium. In a shrimp-focused aquarium, the choice should also support steady routines, visible livestock, and access for basic care.
Before you act, check where the wood came from and whether it may have contacted sprays or runoff. Compare the item with the rest of the setup and note any recent change that could affect what you are seeing.
A careful way to proceed
choose a known aquarium-safe alternative when the source cannot be confirmed. Make one adjustment at a time and watch how the aquarium responds during normal observation.
Avoid assuming a natural-looking branch is safe because it came from a clean-looking area. Labels, products, and tank conditions differ, so use a reliable guide as context and record what you directly observe. If uncertainty remains, ask an experienced shrimp keeper before making a consequential change.
Use these as general hobby references. Test your aquarium and confirm product guidance before making changes.