Shrimp and crawfish are among the most popular types of seafood enjoyed in the U.S. While they bear strong similarities, they’re not the same. Discover the difference between these two crustacean favorites below.

Crawfish

Characterized by large claws towards the front of their bodies, crawfish are often mistaken for lobster, their larger, saltwater cousins. Crawfish are found mainly in freshwater and grow up to four inches in length. They can vary in color from red and orange to dark green, black, or even white. There are hundreds of distinct species of these nocturnal creatures, and the names for them are plentiful as well. You may hear them referred to as crawdads, crayfish, or mudbugs, for example.

Crawfish are an iconic Cajun food and are usually prepared by boiling. They’re then adorned with robust Cajun seasonings and often served alongside dishes such as jambalaya. The best meat of the crawfish is concentrated in the fatty head area.

Shrimp 

This subgroup of crustaceans is known for being decapods, or ten-footed creatures. Instead of claws, they have slender legs, antennae, and a muscular midsection that allows them to swim both forward and backward to avoid attacks. Spanning up to eight inches in length, these creatures are found mostly in saltwater and can vary in color from pink to brown and white. 

Shrimp have more culinary versatility than crawfish. While they can also be boiled and prepared with Cajun seasonings, they work well in a large variety of dishes, whether grilled, fried, or baked. The crustacean has sweet, savory, and even salty notes, making it well-suited for all styles of cuisine. For instance, you’ll find it in Italian and Chinese dishes, and of course, New England and Caribbean-style seafood. 

When you're craving delicious seafood, find it at LoLo’s Seafood Shack. Serving a comfort food mashup of New England and Caribbean dining, this New York City eatery features an extensive menu of fry baskets, steam pot combos, and hearty grain bowls. See their full menu online, or make a reservation through Yelp®. You can also call (646) 649-3356 to speak with a team member, or order online through pickup and delivery through the ChowNow® app.