The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), through the Jepara Brackish Water Cultivation Fisheries Center (BBPBAP) in Central Java, decided to breed Penaeus monodon broodstock due to the difficulty in locating high-quality tiger shrimp seeds. The ninth-generation (G9) tiger shrimp has been successfully produced by BBPBAP a center of broodstock for high quality production and virus free.
White shrimp and tiger shrimp are two distinct types of shrimp commonly found in seafood markets. They have several contrasting characteristics:
White Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei): Also known as pacific white shrimp or whiteleg shrimp, white shrimp are native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, including regions like Mexico and Ecuador. They are widely farmed and easily accessible in the United States.
Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon): Also called black tiger shrimp or giant tiger prawn, originate from the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They are a larger and more exotic shrimp species.
White shrimp have a pale gray or white color with some reddish spots on their tail. Their coloration is relatively consistent and less visually striking than tiger shrimp while tiger shrimp are identifiable by their distinct black and white stripes, resembling a tiger’s stripes. This bold striping is a distinctive characteristic of this species.
White shrimp are generally smaller, typically ranging from 2 to 6 inches in length, depending on their age and the farming conditions while tiger shrimp are larger and can grow up to 12 inches in length or even larger. They are considered one of the largest shrimp species.
White shrimp have a delicate, mild flavor with a slight sweetness. They possess a tender texture, making them popular for various culinary preparations while tiger shrimp have a slightly stronger flavor compared to white shrimp. They are often described as having a meatier and firmer texture, which some individuals find appealing.
White shrimp are more readily available and commonly farmed in numerous countries. They are a staple in the shrimp industry and can be found in a wide variety of dishes while tiger shrimp are less commonly available and are considered more of a specialty product. Their unique appearance and taste make them highly sought after.
White shrimp are typically more affordable due to their widespread availability and relatively easy cultivation while tiger shrimp tend to be more expensive, both because they are less common and due to their larger size and unique characteristics.
When choosing between white shrimp and tiger shrimp for cooking or consumption, consider your personal taste preferences and the specific recipe you plan to prepare. The flavor and texture differences can significantly impact the outcome of your dish.