What's the Difference Between Shrimp and Prawns?

When it comes down to their biology, both shrimp and prawns are decapods, meaning they're crustaceans with ten legs.

Shrimp, the more petite crustacean, live in saltwater. There are a few small but distinguishing details to tell if your crustacean is a shrimp. Shrimp have claws on two of their legs, and the second segment of their shell overlaps the first and third shell segments.—This also gives a distinct bend to their shape, another detail to notice when shopping for seafood.

Prawns live in fresh or brackish (somewhat salty) water, often near the bottom. These crustaceans have claws on three of their legs, which you can spot if you purchase unpeeled seafood. Prawns' shell segments overlap down their abdomen (first overlaps second, second overlaps third), meaning there's less of a distinct bend in their body.

A good rule of thumb to differentiate between the two is size, as prawns are typically larger than shrimp. Just check the shell if you want to know what crustacean you purchased without making a trek out on a shrimp boat. If the second segment overlaps the first and third, it's a shrimp. If the segments overlap down the abdomen, it's a prawn. (Fun Tip: "A Marine Yabby" is an Australian nickname for the Australian ghost shrimp.)

Can You Taste the Difference?

Should you inspect the shell of every crustacean before your next shrimp boil? There's no need. The two flavors have no major distinguishing factor, culinary-wise, aside from prawns' slightly sweeter taste. Prawns also tend to be more expensive than shrimp.

But overall, your purchase is more likely to be affected by the seafood's diet, habitat, and region. It's better to spend time finding the product's source than the taxonomy differences. Wild-caught shrimp is best, as most farmed shrimp comes from areas where regulations are limited.

Our Favorite Shrimp and Prawn Recipes

Now that we've gotten the biology out of the way, here are a few delicious recipes to serve friends and family while you dazzle them with your newfound seafood knowledge.