How Are Prawns Different from Shrimp?

Although many people use the terms prawns and shrimp interchangeably, they are not the same. The idea that 'prawns' simply refers to larger shrimp is a common misconception. While prawns are typically bigger, their differences extend beyond size. Uncover the unique characteristics of prawns and shrimp to enhance your seafood knowledge.

Key Differences Between Prawns and Shrimp

1. Prawns and shrimp are distinct species.

Although you may hear prawns and shrimp used as synonyms in culinary and fishing contexts, they are biologically distinct. Both fall under the decapod order (meaning they are ten-legged crustaceans), but they belong to different suborders.

Prawns are part of the dendrobranchiata suborder, while shrimp fall under the pleocyemata suborder, which also includes species like crawfish, lobsters, and crabs.

2. Prawns and shrimp have distinct physical characteristics.

Due to their different suborders, prawns and shrimp exhibit notable anatomical differences. Prawns cannot bend their bodies the way shrimp can because their body segments overlap like tiles. Shrimp, however, have a segment that overlaps both the head and the abdomen, allowing them to curve their bodies at sharp angles, which gives them their iconic curved shape.

Shrimp typically have claws on one pair of legs, while prawns have them on three pairs. Additionally, prawns tend to have longer legs compared to shrimp, a difference that’s noticeable when they are unpeeled.

3. Prawns and shrimp differ in size.

While prawns are generally larger than shrimp, size alone isn't a foolproof way to identify a prawn. Both prawns and shrimp can vary in size depending on their species.

4. Prawns and shrimp inhabit different environments.

Prawns and shrimp can be found in waters worldwide, but they tend to favor different habitats. Most shrimp thrive in saltwater, whereas prawns are predominantly freshwater dwellers.

Can Prawns and Shrimp Be Substituted for Each Other?

Although prawns and shrimp have distinct differences, their flavors are quite similar. Prawns may taste slightly sweeter, but this is often influenced by factors like whether they are wild-caught or farm-raised. Thanks to their comparable flavor profiles, prawns and shrimp can be swapped in recipes, whether you're grilling, frying, or sautéing.