Key West Pink Shrimp

Key West Pink Shrimp can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, sautéing, frying, and boiling. They are commonly used in dishes such as shrimp cocktail, scampi, and stir-fry.

Key West Pink Shrimp, scientifically known as Farfantepenaeus duorarum, is a species of shrimp that is native to the western Atlantic Ocean, specifically the Gulf of Mexico and the southern Atlantic coast of the United States. It is highly sought after for its sweet taste and firm texture, making it a popular seafood item.

Appearance

Key West Pink Shrimp have a distinctive pink hue that turns bright red when cooked. They have a firm texture and a slightly sweet taste. They range in size from small to jumbo, with larger sizes being more desirable due to their meatiness.

Habitat

Key West Pink Shrimp are found in the shallow waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and the southern Atlantic coast of the United States. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms and are typically found in waters with a depth of up to 300 feet.

Fishing and Seasonality

Key West Pink Shrimp are primarily caught using trawling techniques, which involves dragging a large net along the ocean floor to scoop up the shrimp. They are typically caught from April to November, with the peak season being from June to September.

Culinary

Key West Pink Shrimp are highly prized for their sweet taste and firm texture. They can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, sautéing, frying, and boiling. They are commonly used in dishes such as shrimp cocktail, scampi, and stir-fry.

Conservation

The fishery for Key West Pink Shrimp is generally considered to be well-managed, with measures in place to protect the species and maintain sustainable harvest levels. However, there have been concerns raised over the potential impact of trawling on the ocean floor and bycatch of non-target species.