What is the difference between a prawn and a shrimp

General
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what is the difference between a prawn and a shrimp

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What is the difference between a prawn and a shrimp?

Answer:
The terms “prawn” and “shrimp” are often used interchangeably, especially in culinary contexts, but they do refer to different creatures, each with distinct biological and structural characteristics. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the differences between prawns and shrimp.

1. Taxonomy:

  • Shrimp: Shrimp belong to the suborder Pleocyemata, which is a part of the order Decapoda.
  • Prawn: Prawns belong to the suborder Dendrobranchiata, also under the order Decapoda.

2. Gills:

  • Shrimp: Shrimp possess lamellar gills, which means their gills are plate-like structures.
  • Prawn: Prawns have branching gills, referred to as dendrobranchiate gills, which look more tree-like.

3. Claws:

  • Shrimp: Shrimp typically have one pair of claws that are usually longer than the other, and their front two pairs of legs have claws.
  • Prawn: Prawns have all their legs similarly sized with claws on three pairs of their legs.

4. Body Structure:

  • Shrimp: The segments of a shrimp’s body overlap in a particular way - the second segment overlaps the first and third segments.
  • Prawn: In contrast, prawns do not have this segmentation overlap pattern; each segment overlays the segment behind it.

5. Habitat:

  • Shrimp: Shrimp are more commonly found in saltwater environments, particularly in oceans and seas, though some species inhabit freshwater.
  • Prawn: Prawns are frequently found in freshwater and brackish water habitats.

6. Reproductive System:

  • Shrimp: Shrimp carry their fertilized eggs on the pleopods, which are small swimming legs.
  • Prawn: Prawns release their fertilized eggs into the water, after which the eggs hatch into larvae.

7. Size:

  • Though size can often vary depending on the species, prawns are generally larger than shrimp.

Culinary Uses:

In culinary contexts, the usage of “prawn” and “shrimp” varies regionally:

  • United States: The term “shrimp” is more common irrespective of the species, and “prawn” is used less often and typically refers to larger species.
  • United Kingdom and Commonwealth Countries: “Prawn” is the more commonly used term in both culinary and generic contexts, regardless of size. “Shrimp” may be utilized less frequently, generally when referring to smaller types.

Summary:

  • Taxonomy: Shrimp - Pleocyemata, Prawn - Dendrobranchiata.
  • Gills: Shrimp - plate-like, Prawn - tree-like.
  • Claws: Shrimp - two pairs, Prawn - three pairs.
  • Body Structure: Shrimp - specific segment overlap, Prawn - uniform segment overlap.
  • Habitat: Shrimp - saltwater, some freshwater, Prawn - freshwater and brackish water.
  • Reproduction: Shrimp carry eggs, Prawn release eggs into water.
  • Size: Prawns are generally larger.

Understanding these differences can enhance both culinary experiences and scientific inquiries into marine and aquatic ecosystems. Whether you call them prawns or shrimp, these crustaceans are a delightful addition to many dishes worldwide.