Prawn vs shrimp: Prawns and shrimp both possess

Prawns and shrimp both possess claws, but prawns have claws on three pairs of legs, while shrimp have claws on two. The structure of their segments (head, thorax, and abdomen) overlap in unique ways depending on whether they are prawns or shrimp. As a result of these differences, shrimp can bend their bodies more easily. While prawns and shrimps look similar, they differ in anatomy, habitat, and culinary use. Prawns usually have straight bodies, branching gills, and larger claws on their front legs, whereas shrimps feature curved bodies, lamellar gills, and one pair of larger pincers. Learn the zoological, culinary and regional differences between prawns and shrimps, two types of decapod crustaceans. See a comparison chart, a video and examples of each type. While very similar in appearance, shrimp and prawns are two distinct species. Prawns tend to be larger than shrimp. Though their names are sometimes used interchangeably, true prawns have a slightly sweeter taste than shrimp. Most recipes that call for shrimp can use prawns and vice versa.