You Won’t Believe How Different Shrimp and Prawns Really Are

It’s a seafood lover’s perennial question: “Is it a shrimp or is it a prawn?” At a glance, they look strikingly similar, often serving as interchangeable ingredients in culinary delights. But if you’re like me—an inquisitive biologist by training, a food aficionado, and a wordsmith by profession—you’ll find that the distinction goes far beyond mere semantics or regional language variations.

Biological Differences

Anatomy

Let’s first plunge into the biological intricacies. Both shrimp and prawns are decapod crustaceans, meaning they have ten limbs. But look closely at their bodies. Shrimp possess a more curved structure and their second abdominal segment overlaps the first and third, creating a bend. Prawns have a straighter body, and their overlapping segments are more uniformly arranged.

Gills and Legs

Another telltale sign lies in their gills and legs. Shrimp have branching gills and shorter legs, while prawns have lamellar gills and longer, more articulated legs. These features are not just quirks of evolution; they signify different living conditions and survival strategies.

Freshwater vs. Saltwater

While both shrimp and prawns can inhabit freshwater or saltwater, they have a preference for different environments. Shrimp are primarily saltwater creatures, whereas prawns lean towards freshwater habitats like lakes and rivers.

Culinary Distinctions

Texture and Flavor

From a chef’s perspective, these biological distinctions manifest as unique culinary characteristics. Shrimp typically have a denser, meatier texture and a slightly sweeter undertone. Prawns, on the other hand, are more tender and have a richer, more buttery flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Because of these textural differences, shrimp and prawns are best suited for different types of dishes. Shrimp can hold their own in a spicy jambalaya or a zesty shrimp cocktail. Prawns shine in more delicate preparations like a creamy pasta or grilled with simple herbs.

The Lexical Conundrum

Yes, words matter, especially when they can create culinary confusion. In British English, “prawn” is the general term often used for both species, while in American English, “shrimp” gets the spotlight. To add more international flair, Australians refer to both as prawns. So, when you see “prawn cocktail” on a London menu, you might actually be getting what Americans call shrimp!