Zhoushan Bamboo Prawns

Zhoushan Bamboo Prawns

Zhoushan bamboo prawns are a protected geographical indication product.

　　Wild bamboo prawns, also known as tiger prawns or caridean prawns, belong to the penaeid family of crustaceans. These prawns are large with hard shells, featuring vibrant, banded coloration—hence their name. They are hailed as the "queen of prawns." Not only are bamboo prawns large and meaty, but their tender, snow-white flesh is also incredibly delicious, making them a premium seafood delicacy. In ancient medicine, they were ranked alongside "sea birds and real abalone" as three types of high-nutrition marine foods known to strengthen the body.

　　　　 The waters around the Zhoushan Archipelago are the main habitat for wild bamboo prawns. The wild bamboo prawn population is generally divided into the Zhoushan fishing ground group and the southern Fujian–eastern Guangdong groups. The Zhoushan group is the dominant population, accounting for over 60% of total production. Compared to the southern populations, Zhoushan bamboo prawns have unique advantages: they grow in lower water temperatures, resulting in a longer growth cycle and thus more tender and flavorful meat; the fishing season is relatively concentrated, mainly from September to November, yielding higher unit outputs and greater economic benefits; their color is predominantly bluish, with snow-white flesh, making them highly suitable for products like sushi prawns.

　　　　 Compared to farmed prawns, wild bamboo prawns are larger in size and superior in both taste and nutrition. Since they grow in a natural environment, there is no need to use antibiotics or other drugs as in farmed products, ensuring a high level of food safety.

　　　　 In 2005, Zhoushan’s “Yinhao Brand” bamboo prawns passed the origin mark protection assessment and in 2006 were awarded the title of “Zhejiang Famous Brand Product.” The product enjoys a renowned reputation both domestically and internationally, and has long been exported to countries such as Japan and South Korea, winning high favor among overseas customers. In 2009, a total of 1,000 tons of wild bamboo prawn products were exported to these countries.

　　　　 From April to May each year, bamboo prawns migrate to spawn. The fishing season begins in mid-August, peaks in October, and gradually declines starting in November. The delicious and nutritious bamboo prawn catch can extend into February of the following year. Zhoushan seafood is mouthwatering just to hear about, a delight to eat, and leaves a lasting impression long after the meal.