What is the Difference Between Prawns and Shrimps?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Prawns and shrimp are both decapod crustaceans with 10 legs, but they are from different branches of the crustacean family and have some distinct differences. Here are the main differences between prawns and shrimp:
- Size: Prawns are typically larger than shrimp.
- Shell structure: Shrimp have a flexible accordion-like shell, while prawns have a stiffer shell with overlapping segments.
- Legs: Prawns have claws on three pairs of legs, while shrimp have claws on only one pair.
- Habitat: Shrimp usually live in saltwater, while prawns can live in both fresh and saltwater.
In terms of taste, prawns may have a slightly sweeter flavor than shrimp, but the difference is not significant. The price of shrimp and prawns can also vary, with shrimp generally being less expensive than prawns.
Comparative Table: Prawns vs Shrimps
Prawns and shrimp are both decapod crustaceans, meaning they have 10 legs and exoskeletons, and they live near the floor of the body of water they inhabit. However, they have some differences in their anatomy, habitat, and flavor. Here is a summary of the differences between prawns and shrimp:
| Feature | Prawns | Shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Larger | Smaller |
| Legs | Longer legs with claws on three pairs | Shorter legs with claws on two pairs |
| Gills | Branching gills | Lamellar (plate-like) gills |
| Body Structure | Overlap of side plates from front to back | Overlap of side plates from back to front, creating a bend in their shape |
| Habitat | Typically found in fresh or brackish water | Typically found in saltwater |
| Flavor | Similar flavor profiles, although some prawns may have a slightly sweeter taste | Similar flavor profiles, but shrimp tend to be less expensive than prawns |
Despite their differences, prawns and shrimp are often used interchangeably in recipes and are both good sources of protein, beneficial fats, vitamins, and minerals.
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