Prawn vs Shrimp: The Real Difference, with Malaysian Names
Short answer: In everyday Malaysian English, “prawn” means a bigger one and “shrimp” a smaller one, and both are udang in Malay. Biologically they are different groups: prawns have branching gills, claws on three pairs of legs and release their eggs into the water, while true shrimp have plate-like gills, claws on two pairs of legs and carry their eggs. Taste and cooking are almost identical.
The quick comparison
| Prawn | Shrimp | |
|---|---|---|
| Gills | Branching | Plate-like |
| Legs with claws | Three pairs | Two pairs |
| Body shape | Straighter, segments overlap front to back | Sharper bend, second segment overlaps the first and third |
| Eggs | Released into the water | Carried under the tail |
| Everyday use of the word | Larger sizes (UK, Australia, Malaysia) | All sizes in the US, smaller sizes elsewhere |
The surprise with Malaysian names
Names and biology do not always match. The tiger prawn (udang harimau) and the farmed white shrimp or vannamei (udang putih) belong to the same biological group, the one scientists call prawns, even though one is sold as “shrimp”. The giant freshwater prawn (udang galah) is, biologically, a true shrimp. So the label on the menu tells you about size and marketing, not anatomy.
Does it change the taste?
Not in a way you would notice on the plate. Freshness, size and how long you cook it matter far more. A large tiger prawn has firmer, meatier flesh, and a white shrimp is sweeter and softer. Both turn rubbery if overcooked.
Common Malaysian names in English
- Udang harimau: tiger prawn
- Udang putih: white shrimp, whiteleg shrimp
- Udang galah: giant freshwater prawn
- Udang kara: spiny lobster
- Udang lipan: mantis shrimp
Full list in Malay: nama udang dalam bahasa Inggeris.
Buy them fresh from the pond
Udang2u, our prawn farm in Rompin, farms tiger prawns and white shrimp in saltwater ponds at Kampung Kajang Merchung, 26680 Pekan, Pahang, and sells live bait shrimp for anglers. Open daily 4am to 10pm, pickup only. WhatsApp +60 19-265 9132 for sizes and price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is udang a prawn or a shrimp?
Both. Udang is the Malay word for either. Malaysians usually say prawn for bigger ones.
Is a tiger prawn a shrimp?
Biologically it belongs to the prawn group, but in American English it is often called tiger shrimp.
Which is healthier, prawn or shrimp?
Nutritionally they are very similar: high in protein and low in fat. Cooking method makes the bigger difference.
