Is Prawn a Fish? Understanding the Classification of Prawns and Suitability as Aquarium Pets

Many people are unsure about whether prawns are classified as fish and whether it is suitable for aquarium. In this article, we will explore the classification of prawns and provide a comprehensive guide to understanding the distinction between prawns and fish. We will also analyze the suitability of prawns as aquarium pets, by understanding the challenges and considerations involved in keeping prawns in an aquarium.

The Classification of Prawns

Prawns are a type of crustacean, which is a group of animals that also includes crabs, lobsters, and shrimps. Crustaceans are characterized by their hard exoskeleton, segmented body, and jointed legs. Prawns are similar to shrimps, but they are generally larger and have a more slender body.

Prawns belong to the class Malacostraca, which is the largest class of crustaceans and includes over 50,000 species. They are further divided into several orders, including the order Decapoda, which includes most species of prawns.

The Distinction Between Prawns and Fish

So, if prawns are not fish, what makes them different? Fish are a group of aquatic animals that belong to the class Osteichthyes, which is characterized by their vertebrate skeletal structure and gills for breathing. Fish also have scales and fins, which help them swim and maneuver in water.

Prawns, on the other hand, do not have a vertebrate skeletal structure or gills, and they do not have scales or fins. Instead, they have a hard exoskeleton and jointed legs, and they breathe using specialized organs called gills, which are located on the underside of their body.

Similarities Between Prawns and Fish

Despite the differences in classification, there are also some similarities between prawns and fish. Both prawns and fish are aquatic animals that live in water, and they are both important sources of food for humans and other animals. Both of them (especially shrimp, cousin of Prawn) are part of Aquarium Hobby. Prawns and fish are also both popular choices for aquaculture and aquaponics, which are sustainable and environmentally friendly methods of food production.

The Suitability of Prawns as Aquarium Pets

So, can prawns be kept as pets in an aquarium? While it is technically possible to keep prawns in an aquarium, they are not as popular or widely available as other aquarium pets such as fish or invertebrates. There are a few reasons for this:

• Prawns are generally larger and more active than many aquarium pets, and they require a larger tank and more space to move around.
• Prawns are omnivorous and require a varied diet, including live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and small fish. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than feeding a fish-only diet.
• Prawns are sensitive to water quality and require more frequent water changes and filtration than some other aquarium pets.
• Prawns are not as interactive or engaging as some other aquarium pets, and they may not be as interesting to watch or interact with.

Challenges and Considerations in Keeping Prawns in an Aquarium

If you are still interested in keeping prawns in an aquarium, there are a few challenges and considerations to be aware of:

• Prawns are not as widely available as other aquarium pets, and they may be harder to find in pet stores or online.
• Prawns are not as hardy as some other aquarium pets, and they are more sensitive to changes in water conditions, temperature, and diet.
• Prawns may not coexist well with other aquarium pets, and they may become aggressive or territorial during breeding season.
• Prawns may not be suitable for beginner aquarium enthusiasts, as they require more advanced care and maintenance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, prawns are not fish, but rather a type of crustacean. While there are some similarities between prawns and fish, they are classified into different groups based on their physical characteristics and anatomy.

Prawns can be kept as pets in an aquarium, but they are not as suitable or widely available as other aquarium pets such as fish or invertebrates. Keeping prawns in an aquarium requires a larger tank, a varied diet, and more advanced care and maintenance. If you are interested in keeping prawns in an aquarium, be sure to do your research and choose a species that is appropriate for your experience level and setup.

Understanding the distinction between prawns and fish can help us to appreciate the diversity of aquatic life and make informed choices about our seafood consumption.