The authors considered placing the species within the genus Leprantha, as both share similar chemistry in producing psoromic acid.

The genus name Snippocia was derived by reversing the surname of Brian Coppins (Snippoc), in honour of his contributions to the field of lichenology.

[5] Genus Snippocia is characterised by its unusual features within the family, including its distinct phylogenetic position and its sterile, sorediate thallus.

Instead, it reproduces asexually through soredia, which are small clusters of fungal hyphae and algal cells that can break off and form new lichens.

[5] A key identifying feature of Snippocia is its bright white colour, which is reflected in the species epithet nivea, meaning "snow-white" in Latin.