Number of Shrimp (1-10 ICP)

The Number of Shrimp (1–10 ICP) metric counts the total number of ICP addresses holding between 1 and 10 ICP. These wallets are typically small but slightly larger than micro “plankton” addresses. They often serve as residual or operational wallets, used for minor transfers, testing purposes, or temporary storage.

How it’s calculated

All addresses are analyzed based on their current ICP balance. Addresses holding at least 1 ICP but less than 10 ICP are included in this category. Each address is counted once, regardless of transaction history or activity level.

Interpretation of trends

The Number of Shrimp provides insight into small-scale participation and wallet distribution:

• Increasing shrimp count: Suggests growth in small-scale user activity, operational wallets, or residual balances across the network. This may indicate broader participation, onboarding of minor users, or proliferation of wallets for testing and small transactions.
• Stable shrimp count: Indicates a steady number of small operational wallets without significant accumulation or consolidation.
• Declining shrimp count: Can reflect wallet consolidation, transfers to larger holdings, or a reduction in the creation of small operational addresses.

While shrimp addresses individually hold a minor portion of the ICP supply, their collective count can provide insight into network fragmentation and user-level dispersion beyond micro-level “plankton” wallets.

Limitations

Although this metric helps map small-scale wallet distribution, it has several important caveats:

• Limited economic impact: Each wallet holds a small amount of ICP, so fluctuations rarely affect overall network supply or market trends.
• Activity vs. size: Small wallets may be operational, temporary, or inactive, so the metric does not necessarily indicate active user engagement.
• Automated or testing activity: Canisters, scripts, or testing wallets can inflate the number of shrimp addresses without reflecting genuine user behavior.

Disclaimer: The information provided in the descriptions above is for informational and educational purposes only and is intended as a general overview of the referenced metrics. These descriptions are illustrative, descriptive, and non-exhaustive; additional interpretations, use cases, and limitations may exist that are not covered here. Nothing herein should be construed as financial, investment, legal, tax, or professional advice, nor should it be relied upon as the sole basis for any decision-making process. All users should conduct their own independent research, validate data through multiple sources, and consult with qualified professionals where appropriate. The content provided does not guarantee accuracy, completeness, or reliability, and no representation or warranty is made regarding its correctness. The metrics, interpretations, and examples mentioned are subject to change over time and may not reflect all possible scenarios or market conditions. By using this information, you acknowledge that you do so at your own discretion and responsibility. No advisory, fiduciary, or client relationship is created through the use or reading of this material.