Indian prawn

Species of prawn found in the Indo-Pacific region

The Indian prawn (Fenneropenaeus indicus), also known as the Indian white prawn, is a species of prawn found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is an important species for aquaculture and is widely harvested for human consumption.

Description

The Indian prawn is characterized by its slender body and long antennae. The body is generally translucent with a bluish tint, and the shell is thin and flexible. The species can grow up to 22 cm in length, although most individuals are smaller. The rostrum is long and slightly curved, with 7–8 dorsal teeth and 3–4 ventral teeth.

Distribution and habitat

Indian prawn in its natural habitat

The Indian prawn is distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the Philippines and northern Australia. It inhabits shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and lagoons, typically at depths of 2 to 90 meters. The species prefers sandy or muddy substrates where it can burrow and find food.

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Indian prawn includes several stages: egg, larva, postlarva, juvenile, and adult. Spawning occurs in the open sea, where females release eggs that hatch into planktonic larvae. These larvae undergo several molts before settling in estuarine areas as postlarvae. As they grow, they migrate to deeper waters.

Diet

Indian prawns are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of organic matter. Their diet includes small crustaceans, algae, detritus, and plankton. They use their chelae to capture and manipulate food items.

Aquaculture

The Indian prawn is a significant species in aquaculture due to its fast growth rate and adaptability to different environmental conditions. It is farmed extensively in India, Thailand, and other Southeast Asian countries. Farming practices include both extensive and intensive systems, with a focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly methods.

Economic importance

The Indian prawn is a valuable seafood product, contributing significantly to the economies of countries where it is harvested. It is exported globally, with major markets in Europe, Japan, and the United States. The species is prized for its delicate flavor and texture.

Conservation

While the Indian prawn is not currently considered endangered, overfishing and habitat destruction pose threats to its populations. Sustainable fishing practices and habitat conservation are essential to ensure the long-term viability of this species.

Related pages

• Aquaculture
• Crustacean
• Decapoda
• Penaeidae